Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2021 - BISC 326 D100

Biology of Algae and Fungi (3)

Class Number: 1603

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 8 – Dec 7, 2021: Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 12, 2021
    Sun, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    BISC 101 and 102 with a grade of C- or better.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A survey of form, function and phenetics.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course provides students with a broad understanding of the biology of algae and fungi. In the first half, the large and diverse group of organisms known as algae will be explored. The classification, evolution, life history, reproduction, and cellular/developmental biology of the major lineages are covered. Current research on algae is also discussed. In the second half of the course, an overview of fungal organisms, their morphology and methods used for identification will be provided. The variety of roles of fungi in different ecosystems will be discussed. Additional topics to be reviewed include uses of fungi in food production, fungal pathogens of plants and humans, interactions of fungi with other organisms, uses of fungi as biological control agents, cultivation and identification of mushrooms, and fungi in forest ecosystems.

TOPICS

   Algal biology

.  Introduction to algae
.  Algal taxonomy and phylogenetic relationships
.  Algal evolution
.  Reproduction and life histories
.  Effects of climate change on selected algal species

   Fungal biology

.  Morphology and methods for identification
.  Role in nature and ecology of fungi
.  Pathogenic/beneficial associations
.  Human uses of fungi
.  Mushroom cultivation


MODE OF TEACHING

Lecture: synchronous (recorded) 
Laboratory: synchronous 
Midterm(s): synchronous; date: TBA 
Final exam: synchronous; date: TBA



Grading

  • Biology of Algae 50%
  • Biology of Fungi 50%

NOTES:

Details of projects, assignments, reports, etc. will be provided when the course begins.

REQUIREMENTS:

Effective immediately, the Department of Biological Sciences is adopting a mandatory mask policy for all areas under Biology’s control and in spaces elsewhere where Biology faculty teach, applying to everyone regardless of vaccination status.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Pacific Seaweeds, A Guide to Common Seaweeds of the West coast by Louis Druehl and Bridgette Clarkston. Available digitally (ISBN 978-1-55017-738-1) or as a paperback (ISBN 978-1-55017-737-4).

RECOMMENDED READING:

Algae, 3rd edition by Graham, Graham, Wilcox, and Cook. Available as a downloadable PDF (www.ljlmpress.com/algae.html)
ISBN: 978-0-9863935-3

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN FALL 2021

Teaching at SFU in fall 2021 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with approximately 70 to 80 per cent of classes in person/on campus, with safety plans in place.  Whether your course will be in-person or through remote methods will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the fall 2021 term.