The course includes an exploration of the human use of plants in the past, the present and the future. This will include the origins, evolution and dispersal of plants important to humankind, such as food crops, herbs and spices, medicinal and drug plants, ornamentals, etc. The social and economic implications of biotechnology and the ecological impact of our current loss of plant biodiversity will also be examined.
Prerequisite: Third year standing
Note: BIOL 343 is offered on alternate years