Plant pathology is a multidisciplinary field that explores how plants interact with their environment and the diverse agents capable of causing disease. This module provides an integrated understanding of abiotic and biotic plant diseases, the organisms responsible for them, and the mechanisms by which plants respond and defend themselves. By linking symptomatology, etiology, pathogenesis, and epidemiology, the module offers a comprehensive overview of how diseases develop, spread, and influence plant health and productivity.
A central component of the course is the study of major plant pathogens, including fungi, bacteria, viruses, viroids, and nematodes. Each group is examined in terms of its biology, infection strategies, and the characteristic symptoms it induces. Furthermore, the module highlights the physiology of plant–pathogen interactions, with emphasis on recognition processes, signaling pathways, and plant defense mechanisms.
Finally, the module provides an essential foundation in disease management strategies, covering chemical, physical, biological, and genetic approaches. This includes the principles of integrated pest management and sustainable solutions for reducing crop losses.
Overall, this module equips students with the fundamental knowledge required to understand plant diseases from cause to consequence, and prepares them to apply effective and environmentally responsible control methods.
- Enseignant: SADIKA HAOUHACH