To understand the evolution of different groups of plants and their economic importance.
Algae and Bryophytes: A general account along with classification, structure, function, reproduction, economic importance and evolutionary history. Indian contributors in the field of Phycology and Bryology. A brief account of Palaeobotanical evidence of Algae and Bryophytes.
Lichens and Cyanobacteria:
Lichens: Classification, nature of association, distribution and types, nutrition and reproduction of lichen thalli; Role of lichens in succession, anti-microbial properties of lichens, lichens as bio indicators of air pollution, economic importance of lichens. Cyanobacteria: Classification, structure and reproduction, origin and affinities with bacteria; economic importance and their role in improving soil fertility. General characters, life history and economic importance of Scytonema and Rivularia
Algae : General characters, classification, life history and economic importance of
Prochlorophyta : Prochloron
Chlorophyta : Chlorella, Coleochaete
Xanthophyta : Vaucheria
Phaeophyta : Laminaria
Rhodophyta : Ceramium
Bryophytes: general characters, classification, life history and economic importance of
Hepaticopsida : Plagiochasma, Takakia
Anthocerotopsida : Notothylus
Bryopsida : Polytrichum
Recent treds in Phycology and Bryology:- Algae as a rich source of protein (SCP), algae in space, algae as biofertilizers, algal blooms, algae in food and industry, algae in pharmaceuticals and parasitic algae. Benthic macroalgae and factors affecting their environment.
Economic Importance of Bryophytes with special reference to Ecology, as pollution indicators and in monitoring pollution, anti microbial properties of bryophytes, geobotanical prospects.
Laboratory Readings