Scheme of Studies & Curriculum BS Botany (5 Semester Intake)
Scheme of Studies & Curriculum BS Botany (5 Semester Intake)
BS Botany
(5th Semester Intake)
(w.e.f Spring 2023 & onward)
Department of Botany
University of Sargodha
Sargodha
1
Scheme of Studies/Curriculum of BS Botany (5th Semester Intake) w.e.f. Spring 2023 and
onward
BS Botany (5th Semester Intake) program comprises of 4 semesters with 66 credit hours. Outline of
the courses is as under.
Duration of the Program:
The duration of BS Botany (5th Semester Intake) is two years (04 Semesters)
General courses 01 years (02 semesters)
Specialization 01 year (02 semesters)
Main Features of BS Botany (5th Semester Intake) Program/Credit Requirements
Major Subject: Botany
Duration: 02 years (04 Semesters)
Eligibility: At least 45% marks in ADS/BSc/equivalent with Botany and Zoology (compulsory).
Total numbers of credit hours for BS Botany (5th Semester Intake) is 66
Note:
a). Each semester shall be of 16 to 18 weeks for teaching, number of courses per semester 4-6,one
week for the conduct of examination and one week for the preparation of results;
b). A 02+01 Credit hour course means as course of 3 credit hours i.e. 02 credit hours of theory and 01
credit hour of practical.
Deficiency Courses:
The deficiency courses (if applicable) will be determined by the committee (consisting of Senior
Professors) constituted for this purpose in Department of Botany.
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UNIVERSITY OF SARGODHA
BS Botany (5th Semester Intake) w.e.f Spring 2023 & onwards
SCHEME OF STUDY
I SEMESTER:
Course Code Description Credit hours
STAT-6321 Biostatistics 3(3+0)
BOTN-6301 Bacteriology and Virology 3(2+1)
BOTN-6302 Phycology and Bryology 3(2+1)
BOTN-6303 Mycology and Plant Pathology 3(2+1)
BOTN-6304 Diversity of Vascular Plants 3(2+1)
BOTN-6305 Plant Systematics 3(2+1)
Total Credit hours 18
II SEMESTER:
Course Code Description Credit hours
BOTN-6306 Plant Anatomy 3(2+1)
BOTN-6307 Genetics-I 3(2+1)
BOTN-6308 Plant Biochemistry-I 3(2+1)
BOTN-6309 Plant Ecology-I 3(2+1)
BOTN-6310 Plant Physiology-I 3(2+1)
BOTN-6311 Cell Biology 3(2+1)
Total Credit hours 18
III SEMESTER:
Course Code Description Credit hours
BOTN-6312 Molecular Biology 3(2+1)
BOTN-6313 Plant Biochemistry-II 3(2+1)
BOTN-6314 Plant Ecology-II 3(2+1)
BOTN-6315 Research Methodology 2(2+0)
URCC-5110 Citizenship Education and Community Engagement 0(0)
BOTN-6316 Seminar 1(1+0)
BOTN-XXXX Optional paper 3(2+1)
Total Credit hours 15
IV SEMESTER:
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Elective subjects will be as per available expertise of the university.
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BS Botany (5th Semester Intake)
(w.e.f Spring 2023 & onwards)
1st Semester
Contents
1. Introduction objectives and scope: i. Definition ii. Characteristics iii. Importance and limit iv.
Population and samples
2. Frequency distribution: i. Variable types ii. Formation of frequency table from raw data iii.
Summation, notation and statistical inference iv. Data transformation.
3. Measures of central tendencies and dispersion: i. Arithmetic Mean ii. Median iii. Mode iv. Range
4. v. Variance vi. Standard deviation vii. Standard error of the mean viii. Mean deviation.
5. Organizing and describing data (Standard distributions): i. Random sampling and the binomial
distribution ii. Probability, Types of Probabilities, Random variables, combining probabilities,
Probability distributions Binomial distributions. iii. Poisson and normal distributions, properties
and applications.
6. Basic experimental design: i. Concept and design ii. Principles of experiments iii. Observational
studies iv. Planning of experiments v. Replication and randomization vi. Field plot technique vii.
Layout and analysis of completely randomized design viii. Randomized complete block design ix.
Latin square x. Factorial design xi. Treatment comparison
7. Tests of significance: i. T-test: (Basic idea, confidence limits of means, significant difference of
means. ii. Chi square test: Basic idea, testing goodness of fit to a ratio, testing association
(contingency table). iii. F-test: Introduction and application in analysis of variance. Iv. LSD test,
Duncan’s New Multiple Range test (for comparison of individual means). Bonferroni test
8. Introduction to comparing of means: Unit organization, Basic one way ANOVA, Types of sums
of squares, How ANOVA works, The ANOVA Table. Two-way ANOVA-Factorial designs:
(two-way factorial analysis, 5 calculating and analyzing the two-way ANOVA, Linear
combination, multiple comparisons.
9. Correlation and Regression.
Recommenced Books
1. Zar, J. (2000). Biostatistical analysis (5th ed.). New York: John Wiley & Sons.
2. Shoukri, M.M. & Pause, C.C. (1998). Statistical methods for health sciences (2nd ed.). Florida:
CRC press.
Suggested books
1. Daniel, W.W. (2010). Biostatistics: A foundation for the health Sciences (6th ed.). New York:
John Wiley & Sons.
2. Diggle, J.P. Liang, Kung Y. & Zeger, S. L. (1996). Analysis of longitudinnal data. Clarendon
press.
1. Dunn, G. & Everit, B. (1995). Clinical biostatistics. London: Edward Arnold.
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BOTN-6301 Bacteriology and Virology 3(2+1)
To understand the morphology, structure and economic importance of Viruses and Bacteria.
Bacteriology and Virology is a three-credit hour course for BS in Botany, which covers the basic
principles of Bacteriology and Virology. The main objectives of the Microbiology course is to
establish the basic knowledge on microbes, mostly bacteria and viruses, and their relationships with
other organisms, mainly plants and animals. Also included are the biochemical and molecular
techniques and strategies used to study, but also to control, these microorganisms. The course is
divided into two main sections corresponding to the type of microorganism studied. The Bacteriology
part includes: the historical accounts of microbiology, the bacterial structure, physiology and
metabolism, the diversity and classification of bacteria, the various ways to control microorganisms,
microbial ecology, food and industrial microbiology and finally an introduction to descriptive
epidemiology. After this course the students will be able to understand various biological and
molecular aspects of viruses.
Contents
Viruses
1. General features of viruses, viral architecture, classification, dissemination and replication of
single and double - stranded DNA/RNA viruses.
2. Plant viral taxonomy.
3. Virus biology and virus transmission.
4. Molecular biology of plant virus transmission.
5. Symptomatology of virus-infected plants: (external and internal symptoms).
6. Metabolism of virus-infected plants.
7. Resistance to viral infection.
8. Methods in molecular virology.
Bacteria
1. History, characteristics and classification.
2. Evolutionary tendencies in Monera (bacteria, actinomycetes and cyanobacteria)
3. Morphology, genetic recombination, locomotion and reproduction in bacteria
4. Bacterial metabolism (respiration, fermentation, photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation)
5. Importance of bacteria with special reference to application in various modern Sciences specially
agriculture, biotechnology and genetic engineering.
6. Symptoms and control of major bacterial diseases in Pakistan
7. Plant microbe interaction
Lab outline
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Recommended Texts
1. Black J. & Black, L. (2017). Microbiology - Principles and Exploration (10th ed.). Arlington:
John Wiley and Sons, Inc.
2. Willey, J., Sherwood, L. & Woolverton, C. (2017). Prescott’s microbiology (10th ed.). Kent State:
McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
Suggested Readings
1. Mandahar,C. L., (2017). Plant viruses: structure and replication (1st ed.). Florida: CRC Press,
Taylor & Francis Group Publishers.
2. Arora, A., (2017). Textbook of microbiology (5th ed.). India: CBS Publishers and Distributors.
3. Pommerville, J., (2018). Fundamentals of microbiology (11th ed.). Sudbury: Jones and Bartlet
Publishers.
4. Gaur, R. K, Khurana, K. & Dorokhov, Y. (2018). Plant viruses: diversity, interaction and
management (1st ed.). Florida: CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group Publishers.
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BOTN- 6302 Phycology and Bryology 3(2+1)
This course aims to understand the classification, morphology and economic importance of Algae and
Bryophytes. This course provides basic knowledge about the structure and reproduction of algal and
bryophytes and their evolutionary tendencies and to introduce the students with different species of
algae and bryophytes, their collection methods, mounting and specimen identification and to enable
the students to visualize and understand microscopic differences between algae and bryophytes and
their importance. An advanced level course encompassing all the details related to evolution, types,
ecology and economic importance of algae. The second half of the course will provide detail
information on Introduction and general account of bryophytes, classification, and brief study of
Hepaticopsida, Anthoceropsida and Bryopsida. By the completion of the course, students will be able
to understand the structural difference between algae and bryophytes and their evolutionary trends.
Students will also collect, identify and prepared stain slides for different specimens of algae and
bryophytes. Students make use of this knowledge for the detailed study of algae, bryophytes and their
economic importance.
Contents
Lab Outline
Phycology:
1. Collection of fresh water and marine algae.
2. Identification of benthic and planktonic algae
3. Section cutting of thalloid algae
4. Preparation of temporary slides
5. Use of camera lucida/micrographs.
Bryology
6. Study of the following genera: Pellia, Porella, Anthoceros and Polytrichum.
Recommended Texts
Suggested Readings
1. Barsanti, L. & Gualtieri, P. (2014). Algae: anatomy, biochemistry, and biotechnology (1st ed.).
Florida: CRC Press, Taylor and Francis Group.
2. Hussain, F. (2016) Phycology: A text book of algae (1st ed.). Lahore: Pak Book Empire.
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BOTN-6303 Mycology and Plant Pathology 3(2+1)
The aim of the course is to introduce the students to Mycology and diseases caused by Fungi, to
develop an understanding of the diversity of organisms in the Kingdom Fungi. This course will
provide students with basic concepts and identification of fungi, plant pathogens and diseases caused
to various important crops. Students will be able to: identify major fungal groups based on
morphology (both in the field and in the lab); understand and explain the ecological roles and trophic
modes of major fungal groups; use fungal biology resources to understand fungal nomenclature and
systematic; demonstrate a broad knowledge of core concepts in Plant Pathology; disease diagnosis
and management. Upon completion of the course the student will be able to: describe the concepts of
what constitutes disease in plants. Identify major principles of plant pathology; recognize the
etiological agents of disease. Employ methods to diagnose and manage a wide range of plant diseases;
describe aspects of integrated pest management; explain the impact of plant disease on human affairs.
Contents
Mycology
1. Introduction: General characters of fungi, Thallus, cell structure and ultra-structure of fungi.
2. Reproduction: Asexual and sexual reproduction and reproduction structures, life cycle, haploid,
heterokaryotic and diploid states.
3. Fungal Systematics: Classification of fungi into phyla with suitable examples to illustrate somatic
structures, life cycle and reproduction of Myxomycota, Chytridiomycota, Zygomycota
(Mucorales) Oomycota (Peronosporales), Ascomycota (Erysiphales, Pezizales), Basidiomycota
(Agaricales, Polyporales, Uredinales, Ustilaginales) and Deuteromycetes.
4. Symbiotic relationships of fungi with other organisms (lichens and mycorrhiza) and their
significance.
5. Importance of fungi in human affairs with special reference to Industry and Agriculture.
Pathology
6. Introduction and classification of plant diseases.
7. Symptoms, causes and development of plant diseases
8. Loss assessment and disease control
9. Epidemiology and disease forecast
10. 5.Important diseases of crop plants and fruit trees in Pakistan caused by fungi, e.g.
11. damping off, mildews, rusts, smuts, dieback, red rot of sugarcane etc.
12. Systemic resistance: Induced systematic resistance (ISR), Acquired Systematic resistance (ASR).
Lab Outline
1. Mycology: General characters and morphology of fungi. Study of unicellular and mycelial forms
with septate and aseptate hyphae. Distinguishing characters of different phyla: study of suitable
examples. Study of asexual and sexual reproductive structures in different groups of fungi. Study
of some common examples of saprophytic, parasitic and air-borne fungi belonging to different
phyla.
2. Pathology: Identification of major plant pathogens under lab and field conditions, cultural studies
of some important plant pathogenic fungi, application of Koch’s postulates for confirmation of
pathogencity. Demonstration of control measures through chemotherapeutants.
Recommended Texts
1. Piepenbring, M., (2015). Introduction to mycology in the tropics (2nd ed.). America: APS Press,
The American Phytopathological Society.
2. Burchett, S., & Burchett, S. (2018). Plant pathology (1st ed.). New York: Garland Science
Published.
Suggested Readings
1. Phillips, M., (2017). Mycorrhizal planet: how symbiotic fungi work with roots to support plant
health and build soil fertility (1st ed.). United States: Chelsea Green Publishing Company.
2. Piepenbring, M., (2015). Introduction to mycology in the tropics (1st ed.). America: APS Press, The
American Phytopathological Society
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BOTN-6304 Diversity of Vascular Plants 3(2+1)
Contents
1. Pteridophytes Introduction, origin, history, features and a generalized life cycle. Methods of
fossilization, types of fossils, geological time scale and importance of paleobotany. First vascular
plant Rhyniophyta e.g. Cooksonia. General characters, classification, affinities and comparative
account of evolutionary trends of the following phyla: Psilopsida (Psilotum), Lycopsida
(Lycopodium, Selaginella), Sphenopsida (Equisetum), Pteropsida (Ophioglossum, Dryopteris and
Marsilea).
2. Origin and Evolution of seed habit.
3. Gymnosperms: Geological history, origin, distribution, morphology, anatomy, classification and
affinities of Cycadofillicales, Bennettitales, Ginkgoales, Cycadales, Coniferales and Gnetales.
Distribution of gymnosperms in Pakistan. Economic importance of gymnosperms.
4. Angiosperms: Origin, general characteristics, importance, and life cycle of angiosperms.
5. Palynology:
a) An introduction to Neopalynology and Paleopalynology, its applications in botany, geology,
archaeology, criminology, medicines, honey, oil and gas exploration.
b) Basic information about the nomenclature, morphology and classification of living and fossil
pollen and spores.
Lab Outline
Recommended Texts
1. Maarten J., Christenhusz, M., & Michael F., (2017). Chase, plants of the world: an illustrated
encyclopedia of vascular plants (1st ed.). United States: Kew publishing.
2. Maarten J., Christenhusz, M., Michael F. & Byng, J.W. (2018). The global flora: a practical flora
to vascular plant species of the world (1st ed.). Bradford: Plant Gateway Limited.
Suggested Readings
1. Hobohm, C., (2016). Endomism in vascular plants (1st ed.). New York: Columbia University
Press.
2. Bowcutt, F. & Hamman, S., (2016). Vascular plants of the south sound prairies (1st ed.).
Washington: Evergreen State College Greener Bookstore.
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BOTN-6305 Plant Systematics 3(2+1)
Contents
1. Introduction: Importance and relationship with other sciences, Phases of plant taxonomy. Origin
and radiation of angiosperm, their probable ancestors, when, where and how did the angiosperms
evolve; the earliest fossil records of angiosperms.
2. Concept of Species: What is a species? Taxonomic species, Biological species, Micro and macro
species, Species aggregate. Infra specific categories.
3. Speciation: Mechanism of speciation, Mutation and hybridization, Geographical isolation,
Reproductive isolation, Gradual and abrupt.
4. Variation: Types of variation, continuous and discontinuous variation, Clinal variation.
5. Systematics and Gene ecology / Biosystematics: Introduction and importance, Methodology of
conducting biosystematics studies, various biosystematics categories such as ecophene, ecotype,
ecospecies, coenospecies and comparium.
6. Taxonomic Evidence: Importance and types of taxonomic evidences: anatomical, cytological,
chemical, molecular, palynological, geographical and embryological.
7. Nomenclature: Important rules of Botanical nomenclature including effective and valid
publication, typification, principles of priority and its limitations, author citation, rank of main
taxonomic categories, conditions for rejecting names.
8. Classification: Why classification is necessary? Importance of predictive value. Brief history,
Different systems of classification with at least one example of each (Linnaeus, Bentham and
Hooker, Engler and Prantle, Bessey, Cronquist, Takhtajan and Dahlgren).
9. Brief introduction of Numerical taxonomy.
10. General characteristics, distribution, evolutionary trends, phyletic relationships and economic
importance of the following families of angiosperm:
Apiaceae (Umbelliferae), Arecaceae (Palmae), Asclepiadaceae, Asteraceae (Compositae),
Boraginaceae, Brassicaceae (Cruciferae), Caryophyllaceae, Chenopodiaceous, Convolvulaceae,
Cucurbitaceae, Cyperaceae, Euphorbiacea, Fabaceae (Leguminosae), Lamiaceae (Labiatae),
Liliaceae, Magnoliaceae, Malvaceae, Myrtaceae, Orchidaceae, Papaveraceae, Ranunculaceae,
Rosaceae, Salicaceae, Scrophulariaceae
Lab Outline
1. Technical description of plants of the local flora and their identification up to species level with
the help of a regional/Flora of Pakistan
2. Preparation of indented and bracketed types of keys
3. Preparation of permanent slides of pollen grains by acetolysis method and study of different
pollen characters.
4. Study of variation pattern in different taxa.
5. Submission of properly mounted and fully identified hundred herbarium specimens at the time of
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examination
6. Field trips shall be undertaken to study and collect plants from different ecological zones of
Pakistan.
Recommended Texts
1. Simpson, M., (2019). Plant systematics (3rd ed.). New York: Elsevier.
2. Novikov, A. & Barabasz-Krasny, B., (2015). Modern plant systematic (1st ed.). Ukrainian: Liga-
Press.
Suggested Readings
1. Hoorn, C., Perrigo, A. & Antonelli, A., (2018). Mountains, climate and biodiversity (1st ed.). New
Jersey: Wiley-Blackwell.
2. Shipunov, A., (2018). Introduction to botany (1st ed.). North Dakota: Minot State University
Publications.
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BS Botany (5th Semester Intake)
(w.e.f Spring 2023 & onwards)
1st Year
nd
2 Semester
The aim of the course is to provide the students understanding about anatomical features of vascular
plants. To provide students with skills necessary to section and stain fresh plant material in
preparation for study of plant anatomy. To train students in the proper use of the compound light
microscope and to give them experience in interpreting images that they see through the microscope
in terms of how plant structure is related to function. To provide students with skills in modern
microscopic digital image capture, processing and analysis techniques useful in plant anatomical
studies. To instill in students an appreciation for the complexity of tissue organization that exists
within plant bodies that allow plants to develop and live as integrated organisms in diverse
environments. Identify the parts of a leaf and distinguish between compound and simple leaves.
Identify the anatomy and morphology (cells, tissues, and tissue systems) of a given plant leaf.
Emphasis on flowering plants. Identify the anatomy and morphology (cells, tissues, and tissue
systems) of a given plant root. Also, emphasis on flowering plants. Explain primary growth, initiation
of lateral meristems, and secondary growth in roots using appropriate terminology. Explain how the
structural features of leaves and roots and their components (such as wood and cork) confer qualities
that are useful to people. Compare and Contrast the structure of stem and roots.
Contents
1. The plant body and its development: Fundamental parts of the plant body, internal organization,
different tissue systems of primary and secondary body.
2. Meristematic tissues: classification, cytohistological characteristics, initials and their derivatives.
3. Apical meristem: Delimitation, different growth zones, evolution of the concept of apical
organization. Shoot and root apices.
4. Leaf: types, origin, internal organization, development of different tissues with special reference to
mesophyll, venation, bundle-sheaths and bundle-sheath extensions. Enlargement of epidermal
cells.
5. Vascular cambium: Origin, structure, storied and non-storied cell types, types of divisions: additive
and multiplicative; cytoplasmic characteristics, seasonal activity and its role in the secondary
growth of root and stem. Abnormal secondary growth. Origin, structure, development, functional
and evolutionary specialization of the following tissues: Epidermis and epidermal emergences,
Parenchyma, Collenchyma, Sclerenchyma, Xylem, Phloem with special emphasis on different
types of woods, Periderm.
6. Secretory tissues: Laticifers (classification, distribution, development, structural characteristics,
functions) and Resin Canals.
7. Anatomy o
8. f Reproductive parts: Flower, Seed, Fruit
9. Economic aspects of applied plant anatomy.
10. Anatomical adaptations.
11. Molecular markers in tree species used for wood identification.
Lab Outline
1. Study of organization of shoot and root meristem, different primary and secondary tissues from the
living and preserved material in macerates and sections, hairs, glands and other secondary
structures.
2. Study of abnormal/unusual secondary growth.
3. Peel and ground sectioning and maceration of fossil material.
4. Comparative study of wood structure of gymnosperms and angiosperms with the help of prepared
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slides.
Recommended Texts
1. Crang, R., Lyons-Sobaski, S. & Wise, R., (2018). Plant anatomy: a concept-based approach to the
structure of seed plants (1st ed.). Switzerland: Springer.
2. Schweingruber, F. H. & Borner, A., (2018). The plant stem: a microscopic aspect (1st ed.).
Switzerland: Springer.
Suggested Readings
1. Hacke, U. G., (2015). Functional and ecological xylem anatomy (2nd ed.). New York: Springer
International Publishing.
2. Steeves, T.A. & Sawhney, V.K., (2018). Essentials of developmental plant anatomy (1st ed.).
England: Oxford University Press.
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BOTN-6307 Genetics-I 3(2+1)
This course provides the basic biology to understand all of these issues better, tries to clarify some
misconceptions, and tries to prepare students for future, more advanced coursework in Genetics.
Genetics is the study of how genes bring about characteristics, or traits, in living things and how those
characteristics are inherited. The aim of the course is to learn and apply concepts of modern
transmission and molecular genetics. The objectives of the are: to identify and describe the process
and purposes of the cell cycle, meiosis, and mitosis, as well as predict the outcomes of these
processes; to solve transmission genetics problems, make accurate predictions about inheritance of
genetic traits, and map the locations of genes; to accurately diagram and describe the processes of
replication, transcription, translation, as well as predict the outcomes of these processes. This course
discusses the principles of genetics with application to the study of biological function at the level of
molecules, cells, and multicellular organisms, including humans.
Contents
Lab Outline
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9. Drosophila
10. Culture technique
11. Salivary gland chromosome
12. Fungal Genetics: Saccharomyces culture techniques and study.
13. Studies on variation in maize ear size and colour variation
14. Bacterial Genetics.
15. Bacterial cultural techniques, Gram staining (E. coli, B. Subtilis)
16. Transformation.
17. Conjugation.
Recommended Texts
Suggested Readings
1. Grotewold, E., Chappell, J. & Kellogg, E. A., (2015). Plant genes, genomes and genetics (1st ed.).
New Jersey: Willey Blackwell.
2. Carey, N., (2016). The epigenetics revolution (2nd ed.). UK: Publisher Icon Books Ltd.
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BOTN-6308
Plant Biochemistry -I 3(2+1)
Biochemistry is the study of the chemical processes that drive biological systems. Because the field of
biochemistry is continually evolving and touches many areas of cell biology, this course also includes
an elementary introduction to the study of molecular biology. Biochemistry is both life science and a
chemical science - it explores the chemistry of living organisms and the molecular basis for the
changes occurring in living cells. It uses the methods of chemistry, "Biochemistry has become the
foundation for understanding all biological processes. The course aims to provide an advanced
understanding of the core principles and topics of Biochemistry and their experimental basis, and to
enable students to acquire a specialized knowledge and understanding of selected aspects. Its aim is to
understand the fundamental chemical principles that govern complex biological systems. At the end
of the course students will be enable to understand; An understanding of fundamental biochemical
principles, such as the structure/function of biomolecules. An understanding of metabolic pathways
and the regulation of biological & biochemical processes.
Contents
Lab Outline
1. Solutions, acids and bases, electrolytes, non-electrolytes, buffers, pH and chemical bonds.
2. To determine the Rf value of monosaccharides on a paper Chromatogram.
3. To estimate the amount of reducing and non-reducing sugars in plant material
titrimetrically/spectrophotometrically.
4. To determine the saponification number of fats.
5. To extract and estimate oil from plant material using soxhlet apparatus.
6. Analysis of various lipids by TLC methods.
7. To estimate soluble proteins by Biuret or Lowry or Dye-binding method.
8. To estimate the amount of total Nitrogen in plant material by Kjeldahl's method.
9. To determine Rf value of amino acids on a paper chromatogram.
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10. Extraction of Nucleic acids from plant material and their estimation by UV absorption or color
reactions.
11. To estimate the catalytic property of enzyme catalase or peroxidase extracted from a plant source.
12. To determine the PKa and isoelectric point of an amino acid.
Recommended Texts
1. Nelson, D. & Cox, M., (2017). Lehninger: principles of biochemistry (7th ed). New York: W.H.
Freeman.
2. Heldt, H. & Piechulla, B., (2016). Plant biochemistry (1st ed.). London: Academic Press.
Suggested Readings
1. Voet, D., Voet, J. G. & Pratt, C.W., (2015). Fundamentals of biochemistry (5th ed.). New Jersey:
John Wiley and Sons.
2. Mitra, G. N., (2015). Plants: A biochemical and molecular approach (1st ed.). India: Springer.
3. Buchanan, B.B., Gruissem, & W., Jones, R. L., (2015). Biochemistry and molecular biology of
plants, (2nd ed.). New Jersey: Wiley.
4. Conn E. E. & Stump, P.K., (2017). Outlines of biochemistry (4th ed.). New Jersey: John Wiley and
Sons Inc.
18
BOTN-6309 Plant Ecology-I 3(2+1)
Plant Ecology is the study of organisms, populations, and communities as they relate to one another
and interact in the ecosystems they comprise. In plant ecology, ecosystems are composed of
organisms, the communities they comprise, and the non-living aspects of their environment. The four
main levels of study in plant ecology are the organism, population, community, and ecosystem.
Ecosystem processes are those that sustain and regulate the environment. Ecological areas of study
include topics ranging from the interactions and adaptations of organisms within an ecosystem to the
abiotic processes that drive the development of those ecosystems. The course covers plant ecology on
advanced level. The course deals with plants life history and functional traits, demography, and
interactions between plants, between plants and animals and between plants and the remaining
ecosystem. The student can analyze the current theories, methods and interpretations within the field
plant ecology, and work independently with practical and theoretical problem solving.
Contents
Lab Outline
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Recommended Texts
1. Keddy, P. A., (2017). Plant ecology origins, processes, consequences (2nd ed.). England:
Cambridge University Press.
2. Canadell, J. G., Diaz, S. Heldmaier, G., Jackson, R.B., Levia, D.F., Schulze, E.D., Sommer, U. &
Wardle, D. A., (2019). Ecological studies (1st ed.). New York: Springer.
Suggested Readings
1. Fath, B., (2018). Encyclopedia of ecology (2nd ed.). New York: Elsevier.
2. Keddy, P. A., (2018). Wetland ecology: principles and conservation, (2nd ed.). England:
Cambridge University Press.
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BOTN-6310 Plant Physiology-I 3(2+1)
This course provides an introduction to basic principles of plant functions including physical
processes occurring in plants, Photosynthesis, Respiration, Pathway of translocation, Gaseous
exchange, Mechanism of stomatal regulation and growth and development. This course aims to
develop understanding of the relationship of complementary metabolic pathways such as
photosynthesis and respiration in energy acquistion and use during plant development and to develop
understanding of the environmental influences upon carbon metabolism in plants (e.g. with respect to
alternative fixation pathways, photoinhibition, and photorespiration). Plant physiology deals with all
the internal activities of plants. The subject here to describe plant physiology-I comprises on
harvesting of light by plants and its conversion into a chemical energy, mechanism of oxygen
evolution by plants, cyclic and non-cyclic electron transport chain. This also gives information about
dark reaction, C3, C4 cycle, mechanisms of photosynthesis in CAM plants and phloem transport.
Contents
1. Photosynthesis: History of photosynthesis, nature and units of light, determination of oxygenic and
an oxygenic photosynthesis, various pigments and photosynthetic activity, ultrastructure and
composition of photo system-I and II, absorption and action spectra of different pigments,
mechanism of photosynthesis - light absorption, charge separation or oxidation of water (water
oxidizing clock), electron and proton transport through thylakoid protein-pigment complexes.
Photophosphorylation and its mechanism, CO2 reduction (dark reactions) - C3 pathway and
photorespiration, regulation of C3 pathway, C4 pathway and its different forms, C3-C4
intermediates, CAM pathway.
2. Respiration: Synthesis of hexose sugars from reserve carbohydrates, mechanism of respiration-
glycolysis, differences between cytosolic and chloroplastidic glycolysis, oxidative decarboxylation,
Krebs cycle, regulation of glycolysis and Krebs cycle, Electron transport and oxidative
phosphorylation, aerobic and anaerobic respiration. Energetics of respiration, pentose phosphate
pathway, glyoxylate cycle, cyanide resistant respiration.
3. Translocation of Food: Pathway of translocation, source and sink interaction, materials
translocated, mechanism of phloem transport, loading and unloading.
4. Leaves and Atmosphere: Gaseous exchange, mechanism of stomata regulation, factors affecting
stomatal regulation.
5. Assimilation of Nitrogen, Sulphur and Phosphorus: The nitrogen cycle, nitrogen fixation, pathways
of assimilation of nitrate and ammonium ions, assimilation of Sulphur and phosphorus.
Lab Outline
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BOTN-6311 Cell Biology 3(2+1)
This course aims to understand the structures and purposes of basic components of prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells, especially macromolecules, membranes, and organelles. These can include responses
to environmental or physiological changes, or alterations of cell function brought about by mutation.
To know about the cell division; how and when it takes place. To know about the cancer, causes types
and possible preventive measures. Cell biology is the study of cell structure and function, and it
revolves around the concept that the cell is the fundamental unit of life. Focusing on the cell permits a
detailed understanding of the tissues and organisms that cells compose. It is the study of cell with
respect to its anatomy and physiology. It provide understanding of about cell which act as
fundamental unit of life. It focusing on cell combine form tissues, organ and organism. Research
in cell biology is interconnected to other fields such as genetics, molecular genetics, biochemistry,
molecular biology, medical microbiology, immunology, and cytochemistry.
Contents
1. Introduction of prokaryotes and eukaryote cell, Animal and Plant cell structure.
2. Brief description of ultra-structure and functions of plant cell organelles.
3. End membranous systems.
4. Cell cycle and cell division; meiosis in sexual reproduction in plants.
5. Cellular metabolism and enzymes.
6. Cellular respiration and photosynthesis.
7. Biological information flow; transcription and translation.
8. Informational molecules; carbohydrates proteins and nucleic acids.
9. Cytoskeleton in cell cycle and mitosis.
10. Extra cellular matrix; various types of extra cellular matrix proteins; elastic fibronectin,
glycoprotein, collagen, dynein and motor proteins.
11. Vesicular trafficking, cell migration, cell adhesion, cancer growth factors, disorders in cell cycle,
apoptosis and gap junction.
Lab Outline
1. Study of mitosis and meiosis in onion root tip and pollen grains
2. Study of cell organelles in plant cell by compound microscope
3. Measurement of cell size
4. Separation of different sized DNA fragments on agarose gel.
5. Study of chromosomes morphology and variation in chromosomes number.
6. Counting of prokaryotic cells (bacteria) and blood cells by using haemocytometer.
7. Extraction and estimation of carbohydrates, proteins and DNA from plant sources.
Recommended Texts
1. Verma, P. S. & Agarwal, V.K., (2016). Cell biology (cytology, biomolecules and molecular
biology) (1st ed.). India: S. Chand Publishing .
2. Milo, R. & Phillips, R., (2015). Cell biology by the numbers (1st ed.). London: Taylor and Francis
publications.
Suggested Readings
1. Templeton, N. S., (2015). Gene and cell therapy (4th ed.). London: Taylor and Francis
publications.
2. Sybille, M. & Maria, S., (2015). Tumor cell metabolism (1st ed.). New York: Springer Publications.
3. Bradshaw, R. & Stahl, P., (2015). Encyclopedia of cell biology (1st ed.). New York: Elsevier
publications.
22
BS Botany (5th Semester Intake)
(w.e.f Spring 2023 & onwards)
2nd YEAR
3rd Semester
Molecular biology is a specialized branch, the study of the chemistry of molecules which are
specifically connected to living processes. Of particular importance to molecular biology are the
nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and the proteins which are constructed using the genetic instructions
encoded in those molecules. As a result, molecular biology techniques are at the forefront of most
cuttingedge scientific research. In this project you will investigate a number of commonly used
molecular biology techniques involving DNA. The molecules which form the basis of life provide
scientists with a more predictable and mechanistic tool for scientists to study. Working with whole
organisms (or even just whole cells) can be unpredictable, with the outcome of experiments relying on
the interaction of thousands of molecular pathways and external factors. Molecular biology provides
scientists with a toolkit with which they may “tinker” with the way life works. They may use them to
determine the function of single genes or proteins, and find out what would happen if that gene or
protein was absent or faulty. Molecular biology is used to examine when and why certain genes are
switched “on” or “off”.
Contents
1. Nucleic Acids: DNA-circular and super helical DNA, renaturation, hybridization, sequencing of
nucleic acids, synthesis of DNA, Central Dogma
2. Proteins: Basic features of protein molecules, folding of polypeptide chain, α-helical and β-
secondary structures, protein purification and sequencing.
3. Transcription: Enzymatic synthesis of RNA, transcriptional signals. Translation: The genetic code,
the Wobbling, polycistronic and monocistronic RNA, overlapping genes.
4. Gene regulation in Eukaryotes: Differences in genetic organization and prokaryotes and
eukaryotes. Regulation of transcription, initiation, regulation of RNA processing, regulation of
nucleocytoplasmic mRNA transport, regulation of mRNA stability, regulation of translation,
regulation of protein activity.
5. Plant Genomics: Transcriptomics; DNA libraries, their construction, screening and application.
Microarray of gene technology and its application in functional genomics.
6. Proteomics: Structural and functional proteomics, methods to study proteomics Metabolomics;
methods to study metabolomics; importance and application of metabolomics
7. Bioinformatics and Computational Biology. Levels, scope, potential and industrial application of
bioinformatics and computational biology, docking.
Lab Outline
Following techniques will be used for the isolation and analysis of different components:
1. Extraction of RNA, DNA and proteins.
2. Electrophoreses: One and two dimensional
3. Purification of proteins, RNA and DNA.
4. Amplification using PCR.
5. Northern, Western and Southern Blotting.
Recommended Texts
1. Nelson, D., & Cox, M., (2017). Lehninger: principles of biochemistry (7th ed.). London: W.H.
Freeman-Macmillan Learning.
2. Lodish, H., Berk, A., Kaiser, C., Krieger, M. & Bretscher, A., (2016). Molecular cell biology (8th
ed.). London: W.H. Freeman-Macmillan Learning.
Suggested Readings
1. Venkat, B., Sahijram, R. & Murthy, K., (2015). Plant biology and biotechnology (1st ed.). Berlin:
Springers-Verlag.
2. Clark, D., Pazdernik, N. & McGehee, M., (2019). Molecular biology (1st ed.). Amsterdam: Elsevier
Inc.
23
BOTN-6313 Plant Biochemistry-II 3(2+1)
This course provides an advanced introduction to the fundamental processes of plant metabolism.
Topics will include protein structure and function, mechanisms and control of enzyme action, the
biochemistry of carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism, energy generation and ruminant specific
biochemistry. Explain how protein structure and function is derived from the constituent amino acids,
and compare the features of structural and globular proteins. Describe the basic principles governing
the rate of enzyme catalysed reactions and the forms of inhibition of enzyme-catalysed reactions.
Describe the major pathways of carbohydrate, lipid and amino metabolism and demonstrate how
energy is stored and released through them. Demonstrate familiarity and competence with the
practical skills and techniques used in biochemical research and analysis. This will include
experimental planning, the preparation of reagents and use of basic instrumentation
(spectrophotometers, centrifuges, chromatographic apparatus etc), the collection of biochemical data
and its presentation, and most importantly, the analysis and interpretation of the outcomes of
biochemical investigations.
Contents
1. Bioenergetics: Energy, laws about energy changes, oxidation and reduction in living systems.
2. Metabolism: Biosynthesis, degradation and regulation of sucrose and starch. Breakdown of fats
with special reference to beta-oxidation and its energy balance, biosynthesis of fats. Replication of
DNA, reverse transcription, biosynthesis of DNA and RNA. Components of protein synthesis,
genetic code, protein synthesis: initiation, elongation and termination.
3. Alkaloids: Occurrence, physiological effects, chemical nature with special reference to solanine,
nicotine, morphine, theine and caffeine. Aflatoxins, their nature and role.
4. Terpenoids: Classification monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, triterpenes, tetraterpenes,
polyterpenes and their chemical constitution and biosynthesis.
5. Vitamins: General properties and role in metabolism.
Lab Outline
Recommended Texts
1. Nelson, D., & Cox, M., (2017). Lehninger: principles of biochemistry (7th ed.). London:W.H.
Freeman.
2. Heldt, H., & Piechulla, B., (2016). Plant Biochemistry. London: Academic Press.
Suggested Readings
1. Voet, D., Voet, J. G. & Pratt, C. W. (2015). Fundamentals of biochemistry (1st ed.). New Jersey:
John Wiley and Sons.
2. Heldt, H. W., (2015). Plant biochemistry (5th ed.). Cambridge: Academic Press.
3. Buchanan, B. B, Gruissem, W. &. Jones, R.L., (2015). Biochemistry and molecular biology of
plants (2nd ed.). New Jersey: Wiley.
4. Conn, E.E. & P.K. (2017). Stump, outlines of biochemistry (1st ed.). New Jersey: John Wiley and
Sons Inc.
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25
BOTN-6314 Plant Ecology-II 3(2+1)
The course aims to provide comprehensive knowledge of population, community, ecosystem ecology
and its relevance to mankind. The course covers plant ecology on advanced level. The course deals
with plants life history and functional traits, demography, and interactions between plants, between
plants and animals and between plants and the remaining ecosystem. The main objectives for this
course in plant ecology are to provide a broad overview of the field of plant ecology, gives students a
fundamental appreciation of the local boreal forest and tundra floras and ecosystems, provide an
overview of the Earth’s major biomes. Plant ecology course deals with the study of the main
environmental factors affecting the Earth's major vegetation types: tropical forests, tropical savannas,
arid regions (deserts), Mediterranean ecosystems, temperate forest ecosystems, temperate grasslands,
coniferous forests, tundra. Also give brief account about plant adaptations. The student can analyze
the current theories, methods and interpretations within the field plant ecology, and work
independently with practical and theoretical problem solving with respect to plant responses in terms
of functional traits, life history, demography and ecosystem interactions in different ecosystems.
Contents
1. Population Ecology
a. Population structure and plant demography: Seed dispersal, seed bank, seed dormancy, recruitment
and demography
b. Life history pattern and resource allocation: Density dependent and density independent factors,
resource allocation, reproductive effort, seed size versus seed weight, population genetics and
evolution
2. Community Ecology: Historical development of community ecology, community concepts and
attributes, methods of sampling of plant communities, ecological succession, community soil-
relationship, local vegetation, vegetation of Pakistan and major formation types of the world
3. Ecosystem Ecology: Ecological concepts of ecosystem, boundaries of ecosystem.
Compartmentalization and system concepts, energy flow in ecosystem, biogeochemical cycles:
water carbon and nitrogen case studies.
Lab Outline
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BOTN-6315 Research Methodology 2(2+0)
This course aims to know about research methods, research process, research design, development of
skills for writing the research paper and knowledge about the major theoretical and philosophical
underpinnings of research. The primary objective of this course is to develop a research orientation
among the scholars and to acquaint them with fundamentals of research methods. Specifically, the
course aims at introducing them to the basic concepts used in research and to scientific social research
methods and their approach. This course will provide an opportunity for participants to establish or
advance their understanding of research through critical exploration of research language, ethics, and
approaches. The course introduces the language of research, ethical principles and challenges, and the
elements of the research process within quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches.
Participants will use these theoretical underpinnings to begin to critically review literature relevant to
their field or interests and determine how research findings are useful in forming their understanding
of their work, social, local and global environment.
Contents
1. Research Methods: Planning research, various methods, analyzing results, giving reports etc
2. Research Process: Formulating research questions; sampling (probability and no probability.
3. Measurements: Surveys, scaling, qualitative, unobtrusive.
4. Research Design; Experimental and quasi-experimental, data analysis
5. Writing the Research Paper, the major theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of research
including; the idea of validity in research, reliability of measures; and ethics.
Recommended Texts
1. Leedy, P. & Ormrod, J.A., (2019). Practical research: planning and design (12th ed.). New York:
Pearson Publishers.
2. Creswell, J. & Creswell, D., (2018). Research design: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed
methods approaches (5th ed.). New York: SAGE Publishers.
Suggested Readings
1. Merriam, S. & Tisdell, E., (2015). Qualitative research: a guide to design and implementation
(4th ed.). New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons Incorporation.
2. Booth, W., Colomb, G., Williams, J. Bizup, J. & Gerald, W.F., (2016). The Crafts of Research
(4th ed.). Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
3. Flick, U., (2017). Introducing research methodology: a beginner's guide to doing a research
project (1st ed.). New York: SAGE Publishers.
27
URCC-5110 Citizenship Education and Community Engagement 0(0)
Contents
Recommended Books
1 Kennedy, J. K., & Brunold, A. (2016). Regional context and citizenship education in Asia and
Europe. New York: Routledge Falmer.
2 Macionis, J. J., & Gerber, M. L. (2010). Sociology. New York: Pearson Education
Suggested Books
1 British Council. (2017). Active citizen’s social action projects guide. Scotland: British Council
2 Larsen, K. A., Sewpaul, V., & Hole, G. O. (Eds.). (2013). Participation in community work:
International perspectives. New York: Routledge
28
BS Botany (5th Semester Intake)
(w.e.f Spring 2023 & onwards)
2nd YEAR
4th Semester
Recombinant DNA technology has revolutionized our ability to investigate the genomes of diverse
species and has led to the modern revolution in genomics. Modern genetic techniques are playing an
emerging role in agriculture, health, medicine, foods, disease diagnosis and therapy. Genetic
technology is developing faster than the policies, laws, and conventions that govern its use. The
course aims to develop students’ problem-solving skills and to introduce them recombination of
genetic material at molecular levels with emphasis on introduction to biotechnology and genomics. It
also provides information to extend their knowledge about different Mechanisms of Genetic Change
and to help them thinking in an analytical way. The objectives of learning of this course includes: to
introduce recombinant DNA technology and to elaborate application of recombinant DNA.
Contents
1. Recombinant DNA: Recombinant DNA Technology Introduction, basic techniques, PCR and Rt
PCR, Restriction enzymes, Plasmids, Bacteriophages as tools, the formation of recombinant
DNA, recombinant DNA technology, site directed mutagenesis, DNA sequencing.
2. Application of Recombinant DNA: Applications of recombinant DNA technology using
prokaryotes, recombinant DNA technology in eukaryotes: An overview, transgenic yeast,
transgenic plants, transgenic animals, screening for genetic diseases, identifying disease genes,
DNA typing, gene therapy, genetically modified organisms and apprehensions.
3. Mechanisms of Genetic Change I: Gene Mutation: The molecular basis of gene mutations,
spontaneous mutations, induced mutations, reversion analysis mutagens and carcinogens,
biological repair mechanisms.
4. Mechanisms of Genetic Change II: Recombination: General homologous recombination, the
Holiday model, enzymatic mechanism of recombination, site-specific recombination,
recombination and chromosomal rearrangements.
5. Mechanisms of Genetic Change III: Transposable Genetic Elements: Insertion sequences,
transposons, rearrangements mediated by transposable elements, review of transposable elements
in prokaryotes, controlling elements in maize.
6. Human Genome Project: Strategies and application, achievement and future prospects.
7. Plant Genome Projects: Arabidopsis, achievement and future prospects. Other plant genome
projects
8. Bioinformatics: Application of computational tests to the analysis of genome and their gene
products
9. Bioethics: Moral, religious and ethical concerns
Lab Outline
Problems relating to the theory
1. Isolation and separation of DNA and protein on gel electrophoresis: Bacterial chromosome,
Plasmid DNA(mini-preps), Plant DNA, Protein.
2. DNA Amplification by PCR
Recommended Texts
1. Stevens, T. & Newman, S., (2019). Biotech juggernaut: hope, hype, and hidden agendas of
entrepreneurial bioscience (1st ed.). Philadelphia: Routledge.
2. Shukla, P., (2018). Applied microbiology and engineering: an interdisciplinary approach (1st ed.).
London: Academic Press.
Suggested Readings
1. Se-Kwon, K., (2015). Handbook of marine biotechnology (1st ed.). New York: Springer
Publications.
2. Venkat, B., Sahijramand, R. & Murthy, K., (2015). Plant biology and biotechnology (2nd ed.). New
York: Springer Publications.
29
3. Watson, J., Berry, A. & Davies, K., (2017). DNA: the story of the genetic revolution (1st ed.). New
York: Knopf Double day Publishing Group.
BOTN-6318 Plant Physiology-II 3(2+1)
The aim of the course is to give comprehensive and advance knowledge about growth regulators,
mechanism of water uptake and role of essential nutrients in plant metabolism. Plants are immobile in
nature; they want to fulfill all their requirements of their life without moving from one place to
another place. Plant physiology helps to study a wide range of processes and functions that plants use
to live and survive, including respiration, metabolism, transpiration, plant hormones, environmental
response and transport processes. It is also very important to know the functions of a living organism
or any of its parts. They also have help in agriculture fields, medicine, food production and textiles.
This course examines life process of plants such as signal transduction, different types of hormones
(old group of hormones and newly discovered hormones) their synthesis, mode of action and
beneficial effects. It also gives information about mechanism and different forces involve in uptake of
water, role of water potential, minerals nutrition, their physiological role and deficiency symptoms in
plants. This course also introduces photoperiodism, vernalization and assimilation of nutrients.
Contents
1. Plant Growth Regulators: Major natural hormones and their synthetic analogues. Bioassay,
structure, biosynthesis, receptors, signal transduction and mode of action and transport.
Physiological effects of auxin, gibberellins, cytokinins, abscisicacid, ethylene, polyamines,
brassinosteriods, jasmonates, and salicylic acid.
2. Water Relations: The soil -plant -atmosphere continuum - an overview. Structure of water.
Physico-chemical properties of water. Water in the soil and its potentials. Water in cell
components. Absorption of water in plants (pathways and driving forces, aqua porins, their
structure and types). Cell water relations terminology. Hoflerdiagram - analysis of change in
turgor, water and osmotic potential with changes in cell volume. Modulus of elasticity coefficient;
Hydraulic conductivity. Osmoregulation, methods for measurement of water, osmotic and turgor
potentials- pressure chamber, psychrometry, pressure probe and pressure volume curve
3. Plant Mineral Nutrition: Inorganic composition of plant and soil. Absorption of mineral nutrients
through roots, mycorrhizae. Effect of soil pH on nutrient availability. Ion traffic into root. The
nature of membrane carriers, channels and electrogenic pumps. Passive and active (primary and
secondary) transports and their energetics. Essential and beneficial elements, their functions and
deficiency symptoms in plants. Fertilizers and their significance in agriculture.
4. Phytochromes: Discovery of phytochromes and cryptochromes, physical and chemical properties
of phytochromes, distribution of phytochromes among species, cells and tissues and their role in
biological processes. Phytochromes and gene expression.
5. Control of Flowering: Autonomous versus environmental regulation. Circadian rhythms.
Classification of plants according to photoperiodic reaction, photoperiodic induction, locus of
photoperiodic reaction and dark periods in photoperiodism. Role of photoperiodism in flowering,
biochemical signaling involved in flowering, vernalization and its effect on flowering. Floral
meristem and floral organ development, floral organ identity genes and the ABC model.
6. Signal transduction in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
7. Dormancy; definition and causes of seed dormancy; methods of breaking seed dormancy; types
and physiological process of seed germination.
8. Plant Movements; Tropic movement-phototropism, gravitropism and their mechanism. Nastic
movements.
Lab Outline
1. To investigate the preferential absorption of ions by corn seedlings and potato slices.
2. To determine osmotic potential of massive tissue by freezing point depression method or by an
osmometer.
3. To investigate water potential of a plant tissue by dye method and water potential apparatus.
30
4. Determination of K uptake by excised roots.
5. Measurement of stomatal index and conductance.
6. Qualitative determination of K content in Guard cells by Sodium cobalt nitrite method.
Recommended Texts
1. Taiz, L. & Zeiger, E., (2019). Plant physiology (7th ed.). England: Sinnauers Publ. Co. Inc.
2. Dennis, D. T., Turpin, D. H., Lefebvre, D. D. & Layzell, D. B., (2016). Plant Metabolism (6th ed.).
London: Longman Group.
Suggested Readings
1. Mitra, G.N., (2015). Plants: a biochemical and molecular approach (1st ed.). India: Springer.
2. Buchanan, B., Wilhelm, G. & Russell, L., (2015). Biochemistry and molecular biology of plants
(1st ed.). New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons.
3. Hopkins. W.B., (2017). Introduction to plant physiology (5th ed.). New Jersey: John Wiley and
Sons.
31
BOTN-6319 Environmental Biology 3(2+1)
The aim of the course is to provide updated knowledge of environmental problems and sustainable
environmental management. Environmental Biology encompasses varied themes such as energy flow
biosphere & biomes, carbon trading and other biogeochemical cycling, greenhouse gas emissions,
water resource management, land degradation and rehabilitation, flora and fauna, habitat destruction,
deforestation, energy and mineral depletion, air and water pollution, soil erosion, and groundwater
contamination. This course provides insight into of the basic science of environmental biology and
ecological theory. Environmental Biology helps in recognition of environmental problems such as
climate change, global warming, ozone layer depletion, acid rains as well. This course enables
students to develop strong expertise in contemporaneous themes in ecological research, develop
critical thinking and to discuss about advanced topics in population, community and ecosystem
ecology as well as in biodiversity research.
Contents
1. Environment: Introduction, scope and pressure.
2. Pollution: Definition, classification and impact on habitats.
3. Air pollution: Sources and effect of various pollutants (inorganic, organic). on plants, prevention,
control and remediation. Smog, photochemical smog. Acid rain: Theory of acid rain, adverse
effects of acid rains. Chlorofluorocarbons and its effects.
4. Water pollution: Major sources of water pollution and its impact on vegetation, prevention,
control, remediation, eutrophication and thermal pollution.
5. Sediments pollution: Fungicide, pesticides, herbicide, major sources of soil pollution and its
impact. Prevention, control, remediation, heavy metal pollution. tanneries, hospital waste.
Treatments of sewage, sludge, and polluted waters.
6. Noise pollution.
7. Radiation pollution (including nuclear radiation): Measurement, classification and effects,
principle of radiation protection, waste disposal
8. Forest: Importance, deforestation, desertification and conservation.
9. Ozone layer: Formation, Mechanism of depletion, Effects of ozone depletion
10. Greenhouse effect and global warming: Causes and impacts.
11. Human population explosion: Impact on environment.
12. Environment impact assessment: Industrial urban, civil developments.
13. National conservation strategy: Brief review of major environmental problems of Pakistan and
their solutions.
14. Sustainable environmental management.
15. Wetlands and sanctuaries protection: The pressures, problems and solutions.
16. Range management: Types of rangelands, potential threats, sustainable management.
17. Aerobiology: Pollen allergy and dust allergy.
Lab Outline
1. Examination of industrial waste water and Municipal sewage and sludge for: Total dissolved
solids, pH and EC, BOD/COD, Chlorides, carbonate, and Nitrates.
2. Examination of water samples forms different sites for the presence and diversity of organisms.
3. Effect of air pollutants on plants.
4. Visits to environmentally compromised sites and evolution of remediation
Recommended Texts
1. Ren, H. & Zhang, X., (2019). High-risk pollutants in wastewater (1st ed.). Amsterdam: Elsevier
Publishing Company.
2. Nriagu, J., (2019). Encyclopedia of environmental health (2nd ed.). Amsterdam: Elsevier
Publishing Company.
Suggested Readings
1. Sivasubramanian, V., (2016). Environmental sustainability using green technologies (1st ed.).
Florida: CRC Press Taylor and Francis Group.
32
2. Fisher, M., (2018). Environmental biology (1st ed.). Medford: Open Oregon Press Book
Publishing Company.
BOTN-6320 Biodiversity and Conservation 3(2+1)
Over the years, the depletion of biodiversity has been quite active. This is happening as a result of
habitat loss, excessive exploitation of resources, climatic changes, diseases, pollution, poaching of
animals etc. In order to correct this scenario, biodiversity conservation has been majorly stressed by
governments and social organizations. It must be understood that human beings cherish almost all
benefits from the biodiversity. Hence, they should focus on taking proper care associated with the
preservation of biodiversity in different forms. It is important because there must be something left for
the future generation to look at. We as human beings should curb the degradation as well as the
destruction of the habitats, upholding the biodiversity at its prime level. Biodiversity conservation is
basically aimed at protection, enhancement and scientific management of the biodiversity. To be
precise, manage it at its threshold level and acquire sustainable benefits both for the present and future
population. Biodiversity and conservation maintain crucial ecological processes as well as life support
systems. It preserves the variety of species and make sustainable exploitation of ecosystems and
species.
Contents
Lab outline
Recommended Texts
1. Walker, T., (2015). Plant Conservation: Why it Matters and How it Works. Timber Press.
2. Pellens, P. and P. Grandcolas, (2016). Biodiversity Conservation and Phylogenetic Systematics.
SIP AG Swetzerland.
3. Blackmore, S. and S. Oldfield, (2017). Plant Conservation Science and Practice: The Role of
Botanic Gardens. Cambridge University Press.
Suggested Readings
33
1. Boenigk, A., S., Wodniok and E. Glucksman. (2015). Biodiversity and Earth history. Berlin:
Springer.
2. Scherson, R.A, (2018). Phylogenetic Diversity. Berlin: Springer.
Optional Courses
BOTN-6321 Plant Water Relations 3(2+1)
The aim of the course is to overview comprehensively the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum for the
maintenance of vital physiological functions and mechanisms in plants and to upgrade the concept
about source sink relationships in translocation of solutes in plants. To familiarize graduate students
with some of the tools necessary to measure plant water relations parameters in the field. Emphasis
will be on water potential measurements with Scholander pressure chambers, leaf gas exchange
measurements with potometers and infrared gas analysers, and xylem sap flux measurements with
heat dissipation probes. Water is the major component of living cells and constitutes more than 90%
of protoplasm by volume and weight. Mechanisms of water and nutrient movement in soils and
plants, and their relationships with plant growth are discussed. The term “Cell water relations”
describes plant water status in a cell, individual organ (leaf, internode, flower) or whole plant level,
furthering our understanding of basic plant growth and development, and plant response to the
environment. After completion of this course, the students will be able to understand water and
nutrient movement in soil and plant and adaptation of plants to adverse soil water conditions. This
course will focus on instruments and techniques used to quantify water balance and status in plants in
the field.
Contents
1. The soil-plant-atmosphere continuum - an overview.
2. Structure of water. Physico-chemical properties of water. Water in the soil and its potentials.
Water in cell components. Absorption of water in plants (pathways and driving forces,
aquaporins, their structure and types).
3. Cell water relations terminology. Hoflerdiagram - analysis of change in turgor, water and osmotic
potential with changes in cell volume.
4. Modulus of elasticity coefficient; Hydraulic conductivity.
5. Osmoregulation, methods for measurement of water, osmotic and turgor potentials- pressure
chamber, psychrometry, pressure probe and pressure volume curve, stomatal physiology,
transpiration flux, anti-transpirants.
6. Source sink relationships in translocation of solutes. Mineral nutrition: Hydroponics prospects and
problems,
7. Nutrient solutions, chelating agents. Mineral ion uptake passive and active uptake and transport
8. Nernst equation, Donnan’s potential, role of H+ ATPase as a carrier, co transport.
Lab outline
1. Preparation of solutions of specific normality of acids/bases, salts, sugars, molal and molar
solutions and their standardization.
2. Determination of uptake of water by swelling seeds when placed in sodium chloride solution of
different concentrations.
3. Measurement of leaf water potential by the dye method.
4. Determination of the temperature at which beet root cells lose their permeability.
5. Determination of the effects of environmental factors on the rate of transpiration of a leafy shoot
by means of a potometer/cobalt chloride paper method.
6. To regulate stomatal opening by light of different colors and pH.
Recommended Texts
1. Taiz, L. & Zeiger, E., (2019). Plant physiology (7th ed.). England: Sinnauers Publ. Co. Inc.
2. Dennis, D. T., Turpin, D. H., Lefebvre, D. D. & Layzell, D. B., (2016). Plant metabolism (6th ed.).
London: Longman Group.
Suggested Readings
1. Mitra, G. N., (2015). Plants: a biochemical and molecular approach (1st ed.). India: Springer.
2. Buchanan, B., Wilhelm, G. &Russell, L. (2015). Biochemistry and molecular biology of plants
(1st ed.). New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons.
34
3. Willey, N., (2016). Environmental plant physiology (1st ed.). New York: Garland Science.
4. Taiz, L. & Zeiger, E., (2018). Fundamental of Plant Physiology (1st ed.). England: Sinnauers
Publ. Co. Inc.
BOTN-6322 Plant Micro Techniques 3(2+1)
The aim of the course is to elucidate the importance of light microscopy and other special techniques
maceration and staining to study plant sections, and to make students able to use microtome and
camera Lucida. Microtechnique an important experimental science that has led and continues to lead a
great service for each branch of the life sciences: microbiology, genetics, embryology, morphology
and science, also plays an important role in the development of medical studies of human anatomy.
This includes knowledge of the preparations microscopic plant sample. This course provides
information for managing the techniques of microscopic slides making, microscopic measurements
and methods of identification of some organic compounds in plant cells. Microteaching is a highly
individualized training device. Microteaching is an experiment in the field of teacher education which
has been incorporated in the practice teaching schedule. Microteaching is micro in the sense that it
scale down the complexities of real teaching. Microteaching advocates the choice and practice of one
skill at a time. After finishing this course, students should be able to make temporary microscopic
slides, using different cutting techniques and permanent microscopic slides using paraffin method.
Contents
Lab outline
Recommended Texts
1. Yeung, E. C. T., Stasolla, C., Sumner, M. J.&Huang, B. Q., (2015). Plant microtechniques and
protocols (1st ed.). New York: Springer.
2. Richard, C., Sobaski, L., Wise, S.& Robert, S., (2018). Plant anatomy (1st ed.). New York:
Springer.
Suggested Readings
1. Back, C. B., (2010). An introduction to plant structure and development: plant anatomy for the
twenty-first century (2nd ed.). England: Cambridge University Press.
35
2. Maiti, R., (2012). Crop plant anatomy (15th ed.). England: CABI.
3. Steeves, T. A. & Sawhney, K. V., (2017). Essentials of developmental plant anatomy (1st ed.).
England: Oxford University Press.
BOTN-6323 Plant Seed Physiology 3(2+1)
This course comprehensively provides the details of physiology of seed development and maturation.
It is science and technology that is applied in the seed industry and includes biotech, crop
improvement, as well as courses in seed production and conditioning. This course provides students
with core graduate level management and leadership skills enabling them to better serve seed and
agricultural biotechnology businesses and regulatory agencies in an increasingly complex industry.
This program emphasizes seed production, handling, and use; seed physiology and technology; plant
breeding, and plant biotechnology. This course is designed to help students integrate and better
understand crop growth, development and yield from a perspective of whole plant physiology. In this
course, students will gain an overview of plant seeds physiological processes that are necessary to
understand how plants operate, and interact with their environment. The course is useful to understand
and interpret agronomic phenomena contributing to crop yield. It also offers an opportunity to survey
contemporary aspects of crop physiology with emphasis on recent research progress in related fields.
Contents
Lab outline
Recommended Texts
1. Agrawal, P. K. & Sherry, R. J., (2018).Techniques in seed science and technology (3rd ed.). New
Delhi: Brillion Publishing.
2. Baskin, C. C., & Baskin, J. M., (2014). Seeds: ecology, biogeography and evolution of dormancy
and germination (1st ed.). Cambridge: Academic Press.
Suggested Readings
1. Taiz, L. & Zeiger, E., (2019). Plant physiology (7th ed.). England: Sinnauers Publ. Co. Inc.
36
2. Dennis, D.T., Turpin, D.H., Lefebvre, D.D. & Layzell, D.B., (2016). Plant metabolism (6th ed.).
London: Longman Group.
3. Arnold, R. B. & Sanchez, R., (2004). Handbook of Seed Physiology (3rd ed.). New York: The
Haworth Press, Inc.
BOTN-6324 Palynology 3(2+1)
This course aims to introduce students to neopalynology and paleopalynology and its applications in
botany, geology, archaeology, criminology, medicines, honey, oil and gas exploration. It also provide
the students information about the nomenclature, morphology and classification of living and fossil
pollen, and spores. The objective of the course is to disseminate information on palynology samples
and preparation techniques that avoid the use of acids. Palynology is a particular study within the
realm of ecology that deals with the pollen and spores of plant species. Specifically, palynologists
look at such factors as abundance of pollen and its occurrence in preserved samples. In the research of
plants and their origins, palynologists have an important foothold in the study of past environmental
systems, or paleoenvironments. The course teaches the practical procedures used and will be taught
through instruction within a laboratory environment. This course gives information about spores and
pollens of preserved species samples, which in turn can reveal many details about different
ecosystems, especially marine environments. With palynology, one can determine such environmental
characteristics as water depth, temperature, and salinity. This is important in learning more about past
wildlife and how it has evolved.
Contents
Lab outline
Recommended Texts
1. Slam, H., (2016). Aerobiology: the toxicology of airborne pathogens and toxins (1st ed.). London:
Royal Society of Chemistry.
2. Burge, H. & Muilenberg, M., (2018). Aerobiology (1st ed.). Florida: CRC Press.
Suggested Readings
1. Bhattacharya, K., (2015). A text book of palynology (1st ed.). New Delhi: New Century
Publication.
2. Beaudoin, A.B. & Head, M.J., (2017).The palynology and micropalaeontology of boundaries (1st
ed.). London: Geological Society.
37
3. Alfred, T., (2018). Paleopalynology (2nd ed.). New York: Springer.
The aim of the course is to know about concept of cellular totipotency, differentiation and de-
differentiation and various tissue culture methods / techniques for the production pathogen-free plants
and explicit the role of plant tissue culture in crop improvement. Plant tissue culture broadly refers to
the an in vitro cultivation of plants, seeds and various parts of the plants (organs, embryos, tissues,
single cells, protoplasts).With the advances made in the tissue culture technology, it is now possible to
regenerate species of any plant in the laboratory. In this process the growth medium
or culture solution is very important as, it is used for growing plant tissue because it contains various
plant nutrients in the form of 'jelly' known as agar and plant hormones which are necessary for the
growth of plant. Plant tissue culture is used widely in the plant sciences, forestry, and in horticulture.
Applications include: The commercial production of plants used as potting, landscape, and florist
subjects, which uses meristem and shoot culture to produce large numbers of identical individuals.
Contents
38
BOTN-6326 Plant Biotechnology 3(2+1)
The aim of the course is to introduce students to genetic engineering, cloning strategies, PCR and
genetic markers and applications of plant biotechnology, to provide updated knowledge of
environmental problems and sustainable environmental management through treatment technologies
such as phytoremediation. The objective of the course is to give students new knowledge and
widening of the knowledge acquired in other course by handling of classical and modern plant
biotechnology processes, including breeding of healthy plants, plants with improved characteristics
and plants for biomolecule production. This course enhances the ability of explanation of concepts,
principles and usage of the acquired knowledge in biotechnological, pharmaceutical, medical and
agricultural applications. This course explores the use of biotechnology to both generate genetic
variation in plants and to understand how factors at the cellular level contribute to the expression of
genotypes and hence to phenotypic variation. There is an emphasis on the molecular mechanisms
directing plant gene expression under diverse environmental and developmental stimuli.
Contents
1. Biotechnology: Definition, history, scope and significance. Principles and applications of genetic
recombinant technology in medicine, agriculture, veterinary and food industry. Production of
biotechnological products – food SCP(algae, yeast, mushroom).
2. Biofertilizers, biofuel, biopesticides, biogas production, waste and sewage management, effective
microorganisms.
3. Enzyme biotechnology: Sources and production of commercially important enzymes. cellulase,
amylase, pectinases, proteinases. Immobilization of enzymes and its applications.
4. Amplification of genes by PCR, cDNA and construction of cDNA libraries.
5. Blotting techniques (Southern, northern and western blotting) nonradioactive probe DNA
diagnostics (RFLP, AFLP and RAPD). DNA sequencing.
6. Recombinant DNA technology-gene transfer in plants. Vectors – types, plasmids (PBR 322, PBR
327), cosmid insertion vectors, replacement vectors, shuttle vectors and high expression vectors.
7. Strategies for development of transgenic plants, specific and non-specific methods of gene
transfer, organization of Ti plasmid in Agrobacterium tumifaciens-Ti plasmid mediated gene
transfer. DNA transfer by particle bombardment, micro and macro injection methods –
lipofection-electroporation. Gene cloning in E. coli. isolation of DNA – insertion of DNA – use of
linkers and adapters, transformation, uptake of DNA by host cell, selection of clones,
identification of recombinants, insertional inactivation.
8. Plant tissue culture: Concept of totipotency-organization of tissue culture laboratory. Sterilization
methods-callus induction, subculture and maintenance. Organogenesis, anther culture and
production of haploids, somatic embryogenesis-isolation, culture and fusion of protoplasts-
cybrids, micro-propagation, encapsulated seeds.
Lab outline
39
8. Visits of Biotechnology labs at NIBGI, Faisalabad, AARI, Faisalabad and School of Biological
Sciences Lahore, Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology, Lahore: National institute for
Genomics and Advance Biotechnology (NIGAB)
Recommended Texts
1. Abdin, M.Z., Kiran, U. Kamaluddinand, A. & Ali, M.A.(2017). Plant biotechnology: principles
and applications (1st ed.). New York: Springer.
2. Kumar, S., Kumar, R., & Pandey, A. (2019). Current developments in biotechnology and
bioengineering: waste treatment processes for energy generation (1st ed.). Amsterdam: Elsevier .
3. Gahlawat, S. K., Salar, R.K., Siwach, P.,Duhan, J. S.,Kumar, S., & Kaur, P. (2017). Plant
biotechnology: recent advancements and developments (1st ed.). New York: Springer.
Suggested Readings
1. Smith, R. H., (2013). Plant tissue culture: techniques and experiments (3rd ed.). Cambridge:
Academic Press.
2. Stewart, N., (2017). Plant biotechnology and genetics: Principles, Techniques, and Applications
(2nd ed.). New Jersey: Wiley Online Liberar.
40
BOTN-6327 Advanced Environmental Biology 3(2+1)
The aim of the course is to provide updated knowledge of environmental problems and sustainable
environmental management, to familiarize the students with national conservation strategy and role of
natural resources in conservation diversity of nature and importance of biodiversity for survival and
proper functioning of ecosystems. This course introduces the student to the fundamentals of
environmental biology: the structure and biota of several aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, including
Vermont ecosystems. It includes spatial and temporal changes in ecosystems and species; critical
observation and interpretation of landscapes; and communication skills, critical thinking, and
teamwork. The student investigates why species occupy specific habitats. Environmental Biology is
the study of living organisms in relation to their environment. It is emerged from the fields of natural
history and medicine during the Enlightenment. Today it provides an integrated, quantitative,
and interdisciplinary approach to the study of environmental systems. Environmental biology
incorporates more of the pure sciences for understanding human relationships, perceptions and
policies towards the environment.
Contents
Recommended Texts
1. Fisher, M., (2018). Environmental biology (1st ed.). Medford: Open Oregon Press Book Publishing
Company.
2. Ren, H. & Zhang, X., (2019). High-risk pollutants in wastewater (1st ed.). Amsterdam: Elsevier
Publishing Company.
Suggested Readings
1. Sivasubramanian, V., (2016). Environmental sustainability using green technologies (1st ed.).
Florida: CRC Press Taylor and Francis Group.
2. Calver, M., Lymbery, A. McComband, J. & Bamford, M. (2018). Environmental biology (1st
ed.). England: Cambridge University Press.
41
3. Nriagu, J., (2019). Encyclopedia of environmental health (2nd ed.). Amsterdam: Elsevier
Publishing Company.
42
BOTN-6328 Plant Conservation Management 3(2+1)
The aim of the course is to provide updated knowledge of plant conservation, conservation in practice
and conservation techniques for sustainable ecosystem management, to familiarize the students with
threats to plant communities and its impact on population dynamics and economic development.
Plants are the base for virtually all other life on Earth however humans appropriate approximately 1/3
to 1/2 of all plant productivity. The course provides a thorough introduction to the essential aspects of
plant conservation including an overview of threats to the world’s plant diversity, conservation
genetics, conservation assessments and ways to minimize biodiversity loss. It includes an introduction
to international legislations, politics and humans’ role, both as threats and conservers of plant
diversity. The course has a tropical focus and requires basic knowledge in plant biology at university
level. This class will review the causes of plant species decline, the biological factors associated with
small populations at both the ecological and genetic level, the current practices of population
monitoring and management for conservation in both in-situ and ex-situ environments and the
possibility of reintroduction.
Contents
1. Plant Conservation: Introduction, philosophy, origin, scope, objectives. Definitions
2. Understanding of Conservation: Biodiversity (types). Species (number), advantages of
conservation (food, drugs and medicine
3. Extinction of Plant Species: Natural causes of Extinction. Anthropogenic (man-made) extinction,
habitat destruction, Invasive species. Pollution, over harvesting, commercial products and life
specimen, introduced species, predator and pest control, threats to species, over exploitation,
introduced species, genetic problems in small population, risks reviews and dynamics of small
population
4. Threats to Communities: Chains of extinctions, emergence of new species from old. Functional
integrity in relation to fragment size
5. Conservation in Practice: Endangered species management and biodiversity protection,
categorization of plant species, endangered species law. Bunting and fishing laws, the endangered
species act, recovery plans, captive breeding and management plans, types of conservation (Ex-
situ conservation), protected areas, conservation towards restoration of ecology, healthy approach
to save biodiversity, saving rare species in the wild, habitat protection, private land and land
critical habitat. Reauthorizing the endangered species.
6. Conservation Techniques: Parks and natural preserves, trouble in our parks and management.
New parks establishment. Wildlife in parks, wilderness areas, wildlife refuges, refuge
management, world conservation strategy.
7. Conservation and Economic Development: Indigenous communities and biosphere reserves,
International wildlife preserves. Transboundary peace parks, preserving functional ecosystem and
landscapes, landscape dynamics, size and design of nature preserves, wetland conservation.
Lab outline
1. Visit to Botanical garden. Governor House, Lahore
2. Visit to Bagh-e-Jinnah Lahore
3. Visit to Soon Valley, Pakistan
4. Visit to Botanical Garden, University of Agriculture. Faisalabad
Recommended Texts
1. Ortega-Rubio, A., (2018). Mexican natural resources management and biodiversity conservation
(1st ed.). New York: Springer publication.
2. Blackmore, S., (2018). Best plant conservation practices to support species survival in the wild
(3rd ed.). Amsterdam: Center for Plant Conservation.
Suggested Readings
1. Walker, T., (2015). Plant conservation: why it matters and how it works (5th ed.). Portland:
Timber Press.
2. Blackmore, S. & Oldfield, S. (2017). Plant conservation science and practice: the role of botanic
gardens (1st ed.). England: Cambridge University Press.
43
BOTN-6329 Conservation Genetics 3(2+1)
The aim of the course is to provide updated knowledge of conservation genetics, scope of
conservation genetics, values of biodiversity and loss of biodiversity, to familiarize the students with
conservation techniques and genetic tools, genetic markers for assessing biodiversity. This course will
introduce the principles and applications of conservation genetics, from assessing the genetic health of
individuals and whole populations to deciding on species and sub-species divisions. The key genetic
analyses employed in conservation genetics studies will be described and their technical and
theoretical limitations discussed, as will their considerable power to inform key conservation
decisions. It is becoming increasingly apparent that measures of genetic diversity should be included
in our assessment of species health and future viability, to make the best decisions for their protection
and management. As genetic techniques become more sophisticated and reliable, our use of them to
support species conservation has similarly increased.
Contents
Lab outline
Recommended Texts
1. Ortega-Rubio, A., (2018). Mexican natural resources management and biodiversity conservation
(1st ed.). New York: Springer publication.
2. Blackmore, S., (2018). Best plant conservation practices to support species survival in the wild
(3rd ed.). Amsterdam: Center for Plant Conservation.
Suggested Readings
1. Walker, T., (2015). Plant conservation: why it matters and how it works (5th ed.). Portland:
Timber Press.
2. Blackmore, S. & Oldfield, S. (2017). Plant conservation science and practice: the role of botanic
gardens (1st ed.). England: Cambridge University Press.
44
BOTN-6330 Basic Ecological Genetics 3(2+1)
This course elucidates the role of genetic techniques, genetic markers to assess the genetic diversity
within and among the population. This course also provides an insight into gene flow and mating
system and importance of biological and environmental factors on gene flow. The aim of this course
is to provide the basics of the genetic component in functioning, development and sustainability of
ecosystems with the main focus on forests and the associated communities. Sustainable development
and biodiversity as well as increased impact of biotechnology became important present-day
challenges and the basics of interaction between genetics and environment are needed to solve these
problems. After completing the course students should obtain the basics of ecological genetics
on one hand and breeding and biotechnology on another hand. This knowledge will allow the
students to efficiently cope with the ecological problems connected with genetics to proceed with
well-balanced approach to simultaneously maintain the ecological stability and economic benefit.
Contents
Lab outline
Recommended Texts
1. Daniel, L., & Cochrane, H. B. (2017). Genetics: analysis of genes and genomes 9thEdition. USA:
Jones & Bartlett Learning.
2. Turnpenny, P. D., & Ellard, S. (2016). Emery’s elements of medical genetics. Amsterdam:
Elsevier.
Suggested Readings
1. Pierce, B.A. (2017). Genetics: a conceptual approach. 6th Edition. USA: W. H. Freeman.
2. Klug, W. S., Michael, R. Cummings, R. Spencer, C. A. Palladino, M. A. & Killian, D. (2018).
Concepts of genetics. UK: Pearson.
3. Lewis, R., (2017). Human genetics.12th Edition. USA: McGraw Hill Publication.
45
BOTN-6331 Medicinal Plants 3(2+1)
The overall objective of this course is to improve students understanding of the uses and effects of
medicinal plants, including herbal supplements, on people and their cultures or societies. The course
topics will be taught from the perspective of how different cultures utilize medicinal plants. Students
will learn how different cultures perceive diseases and then utilize plants to treat them. Currently
medicinal plant usage is quite common, but how that use of medicinal plants is perceived depends on
the society where they are used. The latter part of the course focuses on how societies in developed
countries perceive, use and regulate plant medicines or herbal supplements. Finally, because all plants
with bioactive compounds can’t always be regulated, throughout the course students will learn how to
evaluate claims made of specific plants and herbal supplements and will learn where to find reliable
information about those plants and products. Use of plants for medicinal and other purposes;
poisonous plants, cross-cultural aspects, chemistry and biological significance of natural products, and
natural products from higher plants in modern medicine are discussed. This will focus on natural
products extraction (hydrodistillation, solvent extraction, and quality control), assessment of dried
botanicals, and quality assessment and sensory analysis of essential oils.
Contents
1. History of Medicinal plants. Traditional Medicinal systems: Ayurvedha, Siddha, Unani and
Naturopathy. Cultivation, therapeutically and pharmaceutical uses of selected medicinal plants of
Sargodha region. Historical account of medicinal plants in Pakistan. Establishment of medicinal
plant gardens.
2. Definition of Drug-Classification of natural drugs: alphabetical, morphological, pharmacological
and chemical .traditional and folklore medicine-native medicine drugs from leaves, flower, fruits
and seeds, roots, bark (Cinchona) and wood (Ephedra)
3. Pharmacognosy-Definition and scope, drug adulteration, drug evaluation, chemical evaluation and
biological evaluation of drugs, phytochemical investigations-quality control of herbal drugs.
Lab outline
Recommended Texts
1. Akos, M. (2015). Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of the World: USA: Springer publishers.
2. Tránsito, M., L. Luengo and C. Máñez (2015). Medicinal plants at home: NYC: Skyhorse
Publishers.
Suggested Readings
1. Krochmal, A., R.S. Walters and R.M. Doughty (2016). A guide to medicinal plants of
Appalachia: NYC: Amazon publishers.
2. Kumar, A. (2016). Handbook of medicinal plants. NYC: Amazon publishers.
3. Da, H., J. Xiao, G. Pei and G. Xiao (2015). Medicinal plants. (1st ed.) Amsterdam: Elsevier
Publsihers.
46
BOTN-6332 Ethnobotany 3(2+1)
Ethnobotany is the scientific study of interactions between human cultures and plants/plant
environments (the interrelationships between people and plants). This course examines many
different levels and types of interactions between people and plants. The goal of this course is to
introduce students to the fascinating world of the relationships between people and plants. The course
offers a unique and multidisciplinary approach that includes plant structure and function, plant
diversity, the origins of agriculture, and the uses of plants by peoples around the world. As plants are
important to people, the course focuses on how plants affect human health, nutrition and well-being,
interact with other organisms, and provide critical support to biodiversity. The course also offers
important views on how people damage plants and their habitats, and how the reversion of this trend
is important to secure the future of humankind. The course offers exciting insights into groups of
economically important plants such as grasses, legumes, and staples, and how plants serve as a source
of useful natural products. The course provides important examples on the economic importance of
plants, and how the study of plants with a focus on medicine, health, and nutrition can shape the
future careers of students.
Contents
Lab outline
Recommended Texts
1. Rafael, L., Casas, A., & Jose, B. (2016). Ethnobotany of mexico. USA: Springer publisher.
2. Albuquerque, A., Paulino, U., Alves, N., & Romeu, R. (2016). Introduction to ethnobiology.
USA: Springer publishers.
Suggested Readings
1. Rainer, B. (2017). Ethnobotany of the Caucasus. USA: Springer Publisher.
2. Schmidt, B. M., Diana, M., & Cheng, K. (2017). Ethnobotany: a phytochemical perspective. New
Jersey: Wiley publishers.
3. Pullaiah, T., Murthy K., & Bahadur, B. (2017). Ethnobotany of India. UK: Taylor and Francis
Publishers.
47
BOTN-6333 Biodegradation and Bioremediation 3(2+1)
This course will present the basic principles of chemical and biological degradation of toxic
chemicals, and familiarize the students with the application of the remedial technologies in natural
environments. Topics covered will include: 1) occurrence and ecological significance of toxic organic
chemicals, 2) chemistry of contaminants, kinetics and mechanisms of degradation (chemical and
biological), and 3) current technologies of bioremediation of contaminated soils and water.
Bio/remediation as an option to treat contaminated soils and ground water. Advantages and
disadvantages of bioremediation compared to non-biological processes. Biodegradation of specific
contaminants (e.g. diesel fuel, polychlorinated biphenyls, dyestuffs, aromatic and poly-aromatic
hydrocarbons) will be studied in detail. The investigation component of this course consists of
learning how to do appropriate laboratory and field experiments to obtain data on microbial
degradation of an organic pollutant to be able to calculate bioremediation design parameters such as
mass and delivery rate requirements of electron acceptors and nutrients and degradation rates in
reactor and non-reactor based systems; and to be aware of limitations of these calculations.
Contents
Lab outline
1. Isolation of bacteria from oil wastes, polluted water from industries and sewage.
2. Spray plate technique for testing the degradation ability of bacteria for different aromatic
hydrocarbons.
3. Bioremediation from culture by metal resistant bacteria.
Recommended Texts
1. Kaushik, G. (2015). Applied environmental biotechnology: present scenario and future trends.
Singapore: Springer Verlag.
2. Crawford, R.L. (2009). Bioremediation principle and applications. UK: Cambridge University
Press.
3. Singh, H. (2006). Mycoremediation: Fungal Bioremediation. New Jersey: Wiley-Interscience.
Suggested Readings
48
BOTN-6334 Water Pollution Management 3(2+1)
This course provides an overview of engineering approaches to protecting water quality with an
emphasis on water treatment unit operations. It covers a wide range of topics, including water
characterization parameters and designing systems to treat municipal and industrial wastewater, as
well as the legislative framework. Water Pollution management and strategies is offered to students to
let students know basic knowledge and control technologies of water pollution, so that they can solve
problems on water treatment. An understanding of the physical, chemical and biological processes
involved during contamination of water is essential if society is going to effectively monitor and
control the effects of pollution using modern technology and engineering practices. A huge range of
pollutants may be released into the aquatic environment during everyday domestic, leisure, industrial
and commercial activities and many of these contaminants are potentially harmful to human health
and the environment. In this course, we will focus on the origins, pathways and consequences of
anthropogenic pollutants in the environment as well as discussing the various approaches to pollution
control and remediation. At the end students will learn about the causes and harms of water pollution
and their possible methods to remove the pollutants and contaminants.
Contents
1. Water pollution: Sources, types and their impacts; Pollution problems of groundwater resources,
sources of contamination, management issues; Pollutants - sewage, pesticides, oils, metals,
radioactive wastes, biomedical wastes, etc. Common transport processes of pollutants in the
aquatic environment; dispersal of pollutants; Algal blooms and their management, Methods of
pollution surveys; Waste disposal and water quality criteria used in different parts of world
national and international standards; ISO-14000 (EMS), EIA, Management strategies’
2. Wastewaters - classification and characteristics of sewage and industrial effluents; treatment
methods for water and waste water; Principles of aeration, chlorination, ozonation and U.V.
irradiation; Waste recycling and utilization in aquaculture; Design and construction of water
filtration devices; aerobic and anaerobic treatment of wastewater; Wastes from fish processing
units and their treatment; solid waste management; removal of nitrogen and phosphorus from
waste water; Role of aquatic macrophytes in treatment of waste water.
Lab outline
1. Determination of DO, BOD and COD of water.
2. Determination of total dissolved solids (TDS) of ground and surface water.
3. Estimation of amount of phosphate, sulphate, nitrate, nitrite, iron and magnesium and calcium in
the ground and surface water.
4. Estimation of Ca, Mg, organic matter and phosphates in soil.
5. Collection and preservation of waste water samples; Physicochemical analysis of wastewater total
dissolved and suspended solids, color, odor, DO, BOD, COD, H2S, NH3–N, NO2-N, NO3-N, PO4-
P, CH4, heavy metals and pesticides.
6. Use of algae for organic waste treatment.
7. Visit to sewage treatment plants, fish processing units and other industries.
Recommended Texts
1. Chakraborty, D., & Mukhopadhyay, K. (2016). Water pollution and abatement policy in india: a
study from an economic perspective,(1st ed.) USA: Springer.
2. McMillan, S. (2018). Water pollution: types, causes and management strategies. USA: Syrawood
Publishing House.
Suggested Readings
1. Kneese, A.V. (2015). Water pollution: economics aspects and research needs. London, United
Kingdom.
2. Rose, M., & Mendoza, O. (2016). Water pollution and treatment. Canada: Arcler Education Inc.
3. Humaira, Q., Bhat, R.A., Mehmood, M.A., & Dar, G.H. (2019). Fresh water pollution dynamics
and remediation,(1st ed.) Berlin: Springer Verlag.
49
BOTN-6335 Air Pollution Management Strategies 3(2+1)
In this course, students will learn effects of air pollutants on human beings, materials and the
environment, what their sources are, and their physical and chemical behaviour in the atmosphere.
This will introduce the nature of our atmosphere, its composition and meteorology, air pollutant
emissions, air pollution chemistry and climate change / carbon management, together with the
practical measures used to limit emissions from sources ranging from power stations to vehicles and
the legislative and policy framework used by national and local authorities to enforce air quality
objectives. Successful air quality management programs can reduce emissions that lead to air
pollution while simultaneously providing other development benefits that accrue locally as well as
globally. Benefits can include improved public health, energy savings, economic development,
agricultural benefits and reduced emissions of greenhouse gases and other short-lived climate
pollution. This course provides skills and information on how to monitor air pollution and increase
public awareness, how to develop emission inventories and track progress, how to assess the benefits
of air quality improvement, how to select control strategies that are most effective and will describe
regulatory approaches that have been most effective elsewhere.
Contents
1. Nature and classification of pollutants, sources and effects of pollutants on plant growth viz;
fluoride, Sulphur dioxide (SO2), ozone, PAN + smog, ammonia, chlorine, ethylene, dusts etc.,
nature, causes, prevention and control of air pollution (vehicular pollution and industrial chimney
wastes).
2. Air Pollution Sources: Origin, dispersion and impact on human, crops and forest of Particulates,
Sulphur oxides, Nitrogen oxides & volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, carbon
dioxide, Smog and PAN, MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) and CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons),
3. Basic principles of air pollution management, ambient concentrations of air pollutants and trace
gases, national environmental policies, implementation of policies and organization of
management agencies, national air monitoring programme, effects of air pollution on human
health, air quality criteria and case study, emergency preparedness, safety planning and
management, vehicular pollution, monitoring and abatement technologies.
4. Air pollution control equipments, objectives and types of control equipments, efficiency of
separating devices, control of particulate emission settlers, cyclones, filters, scrubbers and esps.
Control of sulphur dioxide from lean and rich waste gases (recovery of sulphur and sulphuric
acid).Control of NOx through absorption and other newer methods; control of vehicular emission
(catalytic conversion devices); Indoor air pollution and its control.
5. Hazardous air pollutants and their management. Biological abatement of air pollution, scope of
green belt development, economical aspect of air pollution abatement technologies.
Lab outline
1. Estimation of foliar dust deposition in samples collected from sites exposed to air
pollution.
2. Determination of settled particulate matter in air.
3. Biomonitoring of heavy metals in the environment.
4. Mapping of vegetation of selected region by using Remote sensing data.
5. Field visits to industrial areas for on-spot biodiversity assessment and to prepare status report.
Recommended Texts
50
Suggested Readings
1. Guardia, M.D.L., & Sergio A. (2016). The quality of air: Volume 73. United Kingdom: Oxford
Press.
2. Smedley, T. (2019). Clearing the air: the beginning and the end of air pollution. UK:
Bloomsbury Sigma.
3. Tiwary, A., & Williams, I. (2018). Air pollution: measurement, modelling and mitigation. (4th ed.)
USA: CRC Press.
51
BOTN-6336 Conservation Ecology 3(2+1)
This course will help the students to learn about the work of conservation biologists and study of
ecosystems can help with conserving the world’s biodiversity. Students will explore the impact of
wind farms on populations of seabirds, and understand how the use of advanced techniques can be
used to study different populations. It will also enable the students to know that how ecosystems are
influenced by human activity and will explore the reasons behind the bee decline across the world,
and examine fish species in tropical seas to see at first-hand how climate change damages coral reefs.
Conservation ecology is the branch of ecology and evolutionary biology that deals with the
preservation and management of biodiversity and natural resources. It is a discipline that is emerging
rapidly as a result of the accelerating deterioration of natural systems and the worldwide epidemic of
species extinctions. Its goal is to find ways to conserve species, habitats, landscapes, and ecosystems
as quickly, as efficiently, and as economically as possible. Conservation, study of the loss of Earth’s
biological diversity and the ways this loss can be prevented. Biological diversity or biodiversity
includes its ecosystems, species, populations, and genes.
Contents
Lab outline
Recommended Texts
1. Schowalter T. D. (2016). Plant Ecology: An Ecosystem Approach. United States: Academic Press.
2. Ent, A., Repin, R., Sagau, J., & Wong, K. (2015). Plant Diversity and Ecology of outcrops in
Malaysia. United States: Springer.
Suggested Readings
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BOTN-6337 Plant Stress Physiology 3(2+1)
This course will provide an understanding of the unique features of plant cells and a general
grounding on plant physiology and growth. In addition it will provide a brief introduction to the
various physiological, molecular, and biochemical mechanisms plants use to respond to
environmental stresses like extreme temperature, drought, salt, and pathogens. Any external factor
that negatively influences plant growth, productivity, reproductive capacity, or survival is considered
as a stress. Plants have to face different type of stresses and develop possible mechanism to
compensate the effect of stress. In this course the students are expected to; learn the major principles
of plant physiology and the crucial processes behind it (e.g. water and nutrient transport,
photosynthesis, key regulatory hormones); gain understanding on the interaction between plants and
the environment, become familiar with basic methodologies employed in these fields and to develop
the skills to read relevant literature, to follow research seminars in these fields and to critically assess
the presented information. This course will also allow the students to learn about the molecular
mechanism of the plant to overcome /minimize the plant stress which affects the plant basic
processes.
Contents
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BOTN-6338 Advanced Plant Anatomy 3(2+1)
Plant anatomy is the study of the internal structure of plants. It plays a key role in understanding how
plants function and is an essential component of much research. This course focuses on plants and
provides with comprehensive, updated information about the organization, development, structure and
function of plant cells, tissues and organs. It will enable the students to learn about the internal
organization of the tissues and their types and when or where these specific types of tissues arise and
perform specific function. The following learning outcomes are expected to be achieved through the
study of this course i.e. Understand basic concepts and terminology in plant anatomy and various
structures of seed plants in relation to their development, function and evolution, Explain how
knowledge of plant anatomy is connected to our everyday life and practices in agriculture and forestry
etc. The Plant Anatomy course will combine theory and practical so that participants can develop a
sound understanding of the structure and function of plants. This subject has a vital role and helps to
understand the internal organization of the plant.
Contents
1. Different types of Meristems: Organization of shoot and root apical meristems; Differentiation of
primary and secondary plant body: Epidermis, Stomatal ontogeny, Cuticle and epidermal appendages;
Secretory structures, Reproductive plant anatomy: Floral vasculature.
2. Secondary Xylem: Axial and ray system, Growth layers. Reaction wood, Gymnosperm wood,
Angiosperm wood, Differentiation in secondary xylem, Strength of wood in relation to structure
3. Dendrochronology (Sap wood, Heart wood, Tension wood, Grain and Knot in wood) Healing of
wounds, Secondary thickening growth in Monocots. More about Dendrochronology.
4. Stem: Tissue systems, Leaf traces, Leaf gaps, Branch traces and branch gaps, Vascular
bundles,Concept of stele delimitation of vascular region, Endodermis, Pericycle, Origin of vascular
cambium, Common forms of secondary growth
5. Anomalous Secondary Growth: Secondary growth in monocots, Grafting and wound healing
6. Types of Stems: Conifer. Woody dicotyledons, Dicotyledonous vine, Herbaceous,
Dicotyledons,Herbaceous monocotyledons Crowns anatomy
7. Leaf: Histology of angiosperm, Leaf, Mesophyll, Bulliform cell, Vascular system, Bundle sheaths,
Supporting structure, Secretary structures, Petiole, Histology of gymnosperm leaf, Development of
leaf, Growth of leaf lamina, Monocotyledonous leaf, Development of vascular tissues, Abscission of
leaves. Anatomy of the node
8. Root: Concept, Origin, Morphology, Primary structure, Root cap, Vascular cylinder, Development
of histogens, Primary and secondary growth, Development of lateral roots, Development of
adventitious roots, Development of buds on roots, Structure in relation to function. Root-Shoot
Transition: Secretary structures, Glands, Nectaries, Hydathodes, Internal secretary structures,
Laticifers. Root Apex: Root Apex in lower vascular plants, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms; Dicots and
monocots,Colcorbizae.
9. Theories of structural development and differentiation (Stem and Root)
10. Flower: Concept, Structure, Vascular system, Different parts, Sepals, Petals, Stamen, Carpel,
Ovule, Organogenesis, Histogenesis, Abscission, Structure of peduncle Petiole and Pedicle Anatomy,
Resin canal in Plants
11. Anatomy of Reproductive parts: Seed, Grain, Fruit
12. Applied plant anatomy: Brief idea on the application of anatomical studies in climatology,
Pharmacognosy, Forensic science, Archaeology and taxonomy. Anatomical adaptations
13. Molecular markers in tree species used for wood identification
Lab outline
1. Study of Tissues from the Living and Preserved Material of Stems, Roots and leaves.
2. Study of trichomes, sclereids,, tracheids, vessels and sieve tube elements.
3. Study of laticifers, oil glands, resin canals, cystolith and crystals.
4. Study of different types of stomata (monocots and dicots).
5. Anatomy of bark and lenticels
6. Nodal anatomy: Study of unilacunar, trilacunar, multilacunar. 7. TS, TLS and RLS of woody
Recommended Texts
1. Clive, A., Stace, C.A., & Crawley, M. J. (2015). Alien plants. United States: Harper Collins
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Publishers.
2. Hather, J.G. (2016). Archaeological Parenchyma. United Kingdom: Routledge Publishers.
Suggested Readings
1. Steeves, T. A., & Sawhney, V. K. (2017). Essentials of developmental plant anatomy. United
Kingdom: Oxford University Press.
2. Spichiger, R.E. (2019). Systematic Botany of flowering plants: A new phytogenetic approach of
the angiosperms of the temperate and tropical regions. United States: CRC Press.
3. Cleal, C. J., & Thomas, B. A. (2019). Introduction to plant fossils. United Kingdom: Cambridge
University Press.
4. Richard, C., Wise, L. S., & Robert, W. (2018). Plant anatomy. Germany: Springer-Verlag.
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BOTN-6339 Seed Production Technology 3(2+1)
The course is designed to enhance the students’ knowledge of seed production and the key roles of
bees and other insect pollinators, how to manage seed crops from agronomic, quality control, and
genetic integrity standpoints, and how to meet new challenges through seed production research. Seed
is the product of fertilized ovule that consists of embryo, seed coat, and cotyledon (s). In terms of seed
technology, any part of the plant body which is used for commercial multiplication of crop is called
seed. To make the available good quality seeds to the farmers, seed certification is necessary, which is
a scientifically designed process. In our country seed certification is linked with notification of
kind/variety. Only those varieties are eligible for certification, which are released and notified under
Seeds Act. Seed testing is required to achieve the objectives for minimizing the risks of planting low
quality seeds and the primary aim of the seed testing is to obtain accurate and reproducible results
regarding the quality status of the seed samples submitted to the seed testing laboratories. After
analyzing seed from each aspect i.e. disease, productivity and germination it is produced in bulk
amount and brought to the market.
Contents
1. Reproductive process in plants. Definition of seed and planting material. Anatomy and chemistry
of seed. Introduction to seed industry of Pakistan. Variety development, registration and
maintains system.
2. Modern concept of quality and seed management. Production of early generation seed. Seed
generation system from pre-basic to basic and certified. Seed quality system, legislation under
seed (Amendment). Act-2015, crop inspection, seed testing, seed processing and storage.
3. Production of true to type disease free fruit nursery plant, hybrid seed production, establishment,
planning and management of seed business, seed marketing and prices network.
4. Comparative study of various seed management systems in the world.
Lab outline
Recommended Texts
Suggested Readings
1. Hussain, A., & Bhutta, A. R. (2016). Seed industry in pakistan. Islamabad: FSC & RD/PSF..
2. Shagufta, S. (2012). Seed science & seed technology. India: APH Publisher.
3. Chakarborty, S. (2013). Plant Molecular Genetics. USA: Scientific Publisher.
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BOTN-6340 Seed Pathology 3(2+1)
Seed pathology involves the study and management of diseases affecting seed production and
utilization, as well as disease management practices applied to seeds. International seed trade has been
affected significantly by changing phytosanitary regulations, not always based on science. This course
deals with the History, economic importance, dynamic of transmission of plant pathogens,
methodology and control measures of seed borne diseases. Seed pathology as a subdisipline of plant
pathology is relatively new. Recent developments in the area of seed pathology technology allow for
more ecofriendly seed treatments and more reliable seed health testing. Due to economics and new
interest in environmental issues, research into the viability of biological seed treatments is becoming
more common. The use of sophisticated DNA amplification technologies allows for the detection of
seed borne pathogens that might go undetected using more conventional means. For the farmers seeds
are not produced and collected in appropriate scientific technology rather these are the portions of
grain cash crop harvested for their consumptions. However, the seed organizations in the country are
still not so aware of the impact of unhealthy seeds which affect directly or indirectly the crop
productivity and sustainable food security in the country.
Contents
Lab outline
1. Collection of seed samples as per ISTA rules,
2. Isolation of pathogen, identification and preservation of culture.
3. Histopathology of healthy and infected seed.
4. Effect of different chemicals and antagonistic microorganisms on seed borne pathogens and seed
germination.
5. Field crop inspection for disease assessment.
6. Visit to seed health testing lab, seed processing plants and seed storage.
Recommended Texts
1. Bhutta, A. R. (2010). Introductory seed pathology. Pakistan: HEC.
2. Ahmed, S. (2009). Plant Disease Management for Sustainable Agriculture. India: Daya
Publishing House.
Suggested Readings
1. Agarwal,V. K. (2014). Management of Seed Borne Disease. India: Agrobios.
2. Agrios, G. N. (2005). Plant Pathology. United States: Academic Press.
3. Sharma, R.C., & Sharma, J. N. (2011). Integrated plant disease management. United States:
Scientific Publishers.
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