9798525 - BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF PLANT DISEASES

The course aims to provide in-depth knowledge of the biological control of major phytopathogenic agents. Students will be expected to acquire the skills necessary to identify the most effective biological control methods and tools to be applied both in nurseries and in the field for the management of major plant diseases. The course will also promote ongoing professional development in this area. Exercises and seminars will focus on the study of antagonistic microorganisms, biological control products, and the development of strategies for managing diseases caused by phytopathogenic agents.

Expected learning outcomes (RAA) according to the Dublin descriptors:

a. Knowledge and understanding: provide basic skills and knowledge on antagonist microorganisms and biological products to be used in the biological and integrated control of phytopathogenic agents.

b. Knowledge and understanding applied: through the use of all the above knowledge acquire the ability to provide information related to the means and measures usable in nursery and field

c. Autonomy of judgment: to be able to interpret all the data and information acquired and to be able to elaborate evaluations in full autonomy on biological control strategies.

d. Communication skills: communicate and describe the aspects of the disease addressed and the possible biological means that can be adopted to control it, adopting a correct technical terminology.

e. Ability to learn: understand the topics both in group and independently, be able to connect not only the topics covered during the lessons and exercises, but also to find connections among the issues covered in this discipline and those in other disciplines.

The course is carried out through lessons (21 hours) and exercises in the classroom, in the laboratory and technical company and field visits (42 hours). The student, also through discussions and group work on topics covered will be able to program biological control strategies against phytopathogenic agents. If the course is being taught in a mixed or distance mode, the necessary changes may be made in relation to what was stated previously, in order to comply with the program provided for in the Syllabus. To guarantee equal opportunities and in compliance with the laws in force, interested students can request a personal interview in order to plan any compensatory and/or dispensative measures, according to the teaching objectives and specific needs. It is also possible to contact the referent teacher CInAP (Centro per l’inclusione Attiva e Partecipata - Servizi per le Disabilità e/o i DSA) of our Department, Prof. Anna De Angelis. 

Basic knowledge of biology, microbiology, plant pathology and disease control 

Not mandatory but strongly recommended due to the practical nature of the subject and the high number of laboratory and field exercises. 

1. Biological and integrated control strategies

2. Selection methods, mechanisms of action and use of antagonistic microorganisms against fungal and bacterial diseases

3. Soil suppression

4. Role of phytobiome in control of plant diseases

5. Biotechnology applied to diseases control

6. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria, fungi and yeasts antagonists

7. Biostimulants, enhancers and resistance inductors

8. Commercially available biological products based on fungi, bacteria, antagonist yeasts and substances of natural origin

10. Practical examples of biological control of plant diseases in pre- and post-harvest

The course contributes to the achievement of the United Nations 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals through practical exercises focused on early diagnosis for the sustainable management of plant diseases.

Scientific materials will be provided by the teacher during the course

Learning evaluation will be carried out through an oral exam. The assessment of the student's preparation will be based on the following criteria: learning ability and depth of understanding of the topics covered, quality of content, ability to make connections with other topics, clarity of presentation, ability to provide practical examples, and reasoning skills.

The score assignment follows the adopted scheme:
Not suitable for passing examination
18-20
Knowledge and understanding of the topic: Heavy shortcomings. Significant inaccuracies
Ability to analyze and synthesize: Irrelevant. Frequent generalizations. Inability to synthesize
Use of references: Completely inappropriate
Knowledge and understanding of the topic: At the threshold level. Obvious imperfections
Analysis and synthesis skills: Just enough skills
Use of references: As appropriate
21-23
Knowledge and understanding of the topic: Routine knowledge Analysis and synthesis skills: It is capable of correct analysis and synthesis. Argue logically and consistently
Using references: Use standard references
24-26
Knowledge and understanding of the topic: Good knowledge
Analysis and synthesis skills: Has good analysis and synthesis skills. The topics are expressed consistently
Using references: Use standard references
27-29
Knowledge and understanding of the topic: Knowledge more than good
Ability to analyze and synthesize: He has considerable abilities of analysis and synthesis
Use of references: Has well explored the topics
30-30L
Knowledge and understanding of the topic: Excellent knowledge
Ability to analyze and synthesize: He has considerable abilities of analysis and synthesis.
Use of references: Important insights. 
 

1. Major biological control agents

2. The mechanisms of action of antagonist microorganisms 

3. Methods of selection and development of antagonist microorganisms and methods of application 

4. Innovative means for the biological control of major pathogens

5. Major professional training websites

6. Practical examples of biological control against pathogens in pre- and post-harvest