Diversity And Classification Of Higher Plants

COURSE DESCRIPRION

The Higher plants (Angiosperms) constitute an important part of the flora of the world constituting the major group of various vegetation types especially of the terrestrial environment. The course Unit will cover the general structure, characteristics, occurrence and economic importance of the Higher Plants (Angiosperms)

COURSE JUSTIFICATION

The course will enable the students to understand the diversity, evolutionary significance and economic importance of Angiosperms which overshadow that of the lower plants.

EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the course unit, students should be able to

·                     Explain why plants are classified.

·                     Define the various terms used in plant taxonomy.

·                     Discuss the aims and importance of plant taxonomy.

·                     Identify the various characters used in taxonomy.

·                     Explain the problems of identification of plants using vegetative and floral characters.

·                     Describe the various systems of classification.

·                     Construct and use the various types of identifications keys.

·                     Summarise the diagnostic characters and discuss the major economic       importance of the major selected Angiosperm families.