Advanced Forest Entomology and Pathology

Abstract

This course deepens knowledge of insects and fungal pathogens in forests, focusing on their ecology, roles in ecosystem dynamics, and impacts of global change. Case studies and applied methods (e.g. resistance screening, biocontrol, risk analysis) link research with forest management and conservation.

Objective

After completing the course, students are able to: 1) Explain and contextualize the ecology, functions, and importance of insects and pathogens in forest ecosystems. (Bloom: Understand; ETH: Subject-specific – Concepts & Theories) 2) Apply and illustrate key ecological principles and regulatory mechanisms to forest health scenarios. (Bloom: Apply; ETH: Method-specific – Analytical competencies) 3) Analyze and evaluate the ecological roles of insects and pathogens within forest ecosystems, considering their interactions and impacts. (Bloom: Analyze/Evaluate; ETH: Subject-specific + Critical Thinking) 4) Assess and discuss the implications of global change for forest health, management, and conservation measures, with a focus on insect and pathogen dynamics. (Bloom: Evaluate; ETH: Method-specific – Decision-making; Subject-specific – Sustainability integration) 5) Select and apply relevant methodological approaches (e.g., resistance screening, biological control, pest risk analysis, molecular diagnostics) to address forest health challenges. (Bloom: Apply; ETH: Method-specific – Problem-solving & Techniques/Technologies) 6) Investigate and explain the mechanisms underlying interactions between insects, pathogens, and trees, and interpret their consequences for ecosystem functioning. (Bloom: Analyze; ETH: Subject-specific – Theories & Techniques) 7) Collaborate across disciplines (Entomology and Pathology) to develop integrated perspectives for addressing complex forest health challenges. (Bloom: Create; ETH: Social – Cooperation & Teamwork; Personal – Adaptability)

Content

The course deepens students’ understanding of forest health by linking ecological principles with applied case studies. Core topics include: 1. Ecology and functions of forest pests and pathogens - Advanced ecology and management of native pathogens and insects - Trophic interactions, herbivore–pathogen interactions, and food webs - Disturbance ecology (e.g. fire, storms, drought) and urban ecology 2. Global change and invasive species - Impacts of invasive pathogens and insects on forests and their management - Climate change effects on pest and pathogen dynamics - Case studies: Armillaria root rot, bark beetle population dynamics 3. Methods and applications - Screening for resistance and biological control strategies - Pest risk analyses and molecular diagnostics - Population genetics and chemical ecology to understand mechanisms of interactions 4. Forest management and conservation - Integration of pest and pathogen knowledge into forest management - Biodiversity protection and nature conservation measures - Interdisciplinary approaches combining entomology and pathology

Resources