The course builds up on the Bachelor course Entomology and Pathology. The basics of the ecology, function, importance and management of insects and pathogens (in particular fungi) in forests are deepened and illustrated with examples from research. In addition to general aspects of forest health with regard to native and invasive species, applied and methodological aspects are also addressed.

In-depth understanding of concepts, insight into current research and experience with methods of Forest Pathology based on selected pathosystems.

Introduction of the biological and ecological basics of fungi in forests. Focusing on mycorrhizal, saprobic, and pathogenic fungi and their functional relevance in the forest ecosystems. To get to know current methodological research approaches on the basis of selected examples with practical works in forest and lab as well as excursions and lectures.

Lifestyles and functions of symbiotic, saprobic and pathogenic fungi, communities of mycorrhizas and its functional aspects, evolution and phylogenetic aspects of plant-fungal interactions, inter- and intraspecific interactions of mycelia, role of fungi in nutrient mobilisation and weathering.