Photosynthesis from Cell to Canopy

This course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the process of photosynthesis, emphasizing its intricate mechanisms from the individual cell level to the broader canopy scale. Students will delve into the biochemical, physiological, and ecological aspects of photosynthesis, gaining insights into the pivotal role this process plays in sustaining life on Earth. Through theoretical knowledge and practical applications, students will develop critical thinking skills to analyse and address challenges related to photosynthesis in diverse environments.

The course provides an overview of photosynthesis as the fundamental biological process, with an exploration of light-dependent and light-independent reactions at the cellular level. The distinction between different photosynthesis pathways, namely C3, C4, and CAM is introduced to understand their adaptive advantages and ecological implications. Expanding the scope, the course delves into the role of leaf anatomical features, canopy structure, light distribution, and competition in ecosystem-level photosynthesis. Furthermore, the impact of environmental stressors (e.g., drought, high temperatures) on photosynthesis and how plants can cope with these conditions is presented in the context of global environmental change and with the need to feed a growing population.

By the end of this course, students will have a holistic understanding of photosynthesis, ranging from the molecular mechanisms within a leaf to the broader ecological implications at the canopy level. They will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to critically evaluate and contribute to advancements in the field of photosynthesis research.

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:

• Define important photosynthesis responses to the natural environment (e.g. light, temperature, CO2) that are essential for growth and yield
• Perform experiments, understand measurement principle and assess photosynthesis efficiency from leaf to canopy
• Process simple dataset and gain expert knowledge on interpreting photosynthesis related measurements

Mandatory Knowledge:
ZSS06100 Laboratory Safety
Assumed Knowledge:
PPH10806 Structure and Function of Plants.