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701-1606-00L 5 Credits MSC D-USYS

Advanced Forest Entomology and Pathology

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Martin Gossner, Dr. Simone Prospero
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:54

Abstract

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.

Objective

The course has the following learning objectives: 1) To deepen the general knowledge of the ecology, function and importance of insects and pathogens in forests. 2) To understand the most important ecological principles and regulatory mechanisms. 3) To understand the ecological importance of insects and pathogens in forest ecosystems. 4) To understand the role of global change for forest health, forest management and nature conservation measures with regard to insects and pathogens. 5) To become familiar with relevant methodological aspects, including screening for resistance, biological control, pest risk analysis and molecular diagnostics. 6) To understand the importance of interactions between insects, pathogens and trees and their underlying mechanisms. 7) To understand the need for collaboration between the disciplines Entomology and Pathology to address major challenges in forest health.

Content

- Native pathogens – Advanced ecology, Functions, Management - Native insects - Advanced Ecology, Functions, Management - Invasive pathogens - Impact, Management - Invasive insects - Impact, Management - Population genetics - Urban ecology - Disturbance ecology (Fire, Storms, Drought etc.) - Climate change and Pests and Pathogens - Armillaria root rot - Bark beetle population dynamics - Forest management biodiversity - Nature Conservation - Trophic interactions and foodwebs - Herbivore - pathogen interactions - Chemical ecology to understand mechanisms of trophic interactions - Screening for resistance - Biocontrol - Pest-Risk analyses - Molecular Diagnostics

Resources

Literature

Accompanying book to the lecture (not compulsory): Wermelinger B. 2021: Forest Insects in Europe Diversity, Functions and Importance. CRC Press, 365 pp. Tainter FH, Baker FA. 1996. Principles of Forest Pathology. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 805 pp

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 60 minutes
Aids
None
Compulsory continuous performance assessment task (presentation at the last lecture day) must be passed on its own; it is assessed on a pass/fail basis.Additionally attendance at fieldtrip (one day) is required.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Advanced Forest Entomology and Pathology
  • Tue 10:15-12:00 (CHN F 42)
  • Wed 08:15-10:00 (CHN F 46)
3 h weekly

Offered In