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751-4811-00L 2 Credits MSC D-USYS

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Alien Organisms in Agriculture

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Jana Collatz, Dr. Michael Meissle

Number of participants limited to 30.

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:00:33

Abstract

The course focuses on alien organisms in agriculture as well as the scientific assessment and regulatory management of their effects on the environment and agricultural production.

Objective

Students will understand the consequences arising from the unintentional or deliberate introduction of alien organisms into agricultural systems. They will be able to understand the concept of environmental risk assessment and be able to evaluate risk management options.

Content

Alien organisms in agriculture is a topic that receives an increasing awareness among farmers, agricultural scientists, regulators and the general public. Students of this course will learn about the nature of alien organisms such as invasive species, biocontrol organisms and genetically modified organisms. With a particular focus on arthropods, plants and their interactions we will look at the potential threats the novel organisms pose, the benefits they provide and how both of these effects can be scientifically assessed. Students will learn how the topic of alien organisms in agriculture is intrinsically tied to policy making and regulation and get to know current examples and future challenges in research. In the last part of the course students will be able to apply the acquired knowledge in a practical exercise (case study).

Resources

Lecture Notes

Material will be distributed during the course

General Information

Language: English
Levels: MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: graded semester performance

Written exam at the end of the course 50%, active participation in practical exercise 50%; regular (>60%) participation in the course is required

Registration & Places

Max Places: 30

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Alien Organisms in Agriculture	Tue 08:15-10:00 (CAB G 59)	2 h weekly

Offered In

Agricultural Sciences Master
- Major in Plant Sciences
  - Disciplinary Competences
    - Crop Health
- Minors
  - Crop Health (This minor will only be offered in the academic year 22/23. As of the academic year 23/24, the minor can no longer be chosen. The course units offered in the minor can still be taken as electives.)
  - Crop- and Grassland Science (This minor is new and in force from the academic year 22/23. The complete courselist for this minor will be published on the website of the Study Programme.)
  - General Crop Science (This minor will only be offered in the academic year 22/23. As of the academic year 23/24, the minor can no longer be chosen. The course units offered in the minor can still be taken as electives.)