Crop Protection I

To achieve the objectives and the expected competences, the learning process is based on:
– Classes of presentation and discussion of concepts, by teachers and students;
– Field classes at the ESAC to contact with the enemies;
– Laboratory classes with diagnostic methodologies with identification of symptoms, crop enemies and beneficial organisms;
– Bibliographic research and subsequent realization of reports and presentations by the students

In the training of a technician in the Agronomic area it is essential to know the effects that crop enemies can exert on production. Thus, in this Curricular Unit is intended to provide students with the necessary elements to understand the importance of Plant Protection for Agricultural Production, particularly in Organic Agriculture. In this context will be introduced the basic principles of Plant Protection and developed the knowledge on epidemiology and resistance of plants to their enemies. It will also be addressed the different groups of crop enemies and the methodologies used to develop the diagnosis. In this way the student should acquire the knowledge that allows him to develop the following competences:
1. To know the basic concepts of Plant Protection and Phytopathology;
2. To know the effects caused by the enemies on the crops and their importance;
3. To know and identify the main enemies of crops and the factors that contribute to their spread.

1. Basic concepts in Plant Protection and Phytopathology:
– Crop enemies and damage;
– Plant Pathology. Disease of plants and its dedelopment. Symptoms, diagnosis and resistance of the plants.
2. Identification of the major crop enemies:
– Characterization and diagnosis of phytopathogenic fungi; examples of mycosis of great economic importance;
– Characterization and diagnosis of phytopathogenic bacteria and molicutes; examples of bacterioses of great economic importance;
– Characterization and diagnosis of phytopathogenic viruses and viroids; Examples of viruses of great economic importance;
– Characterization and diagnosis of phytoparasitic nematodes; examples of nematodes of great economic importance;
– Agricultural Entomology and Acarology. Characterization of orders and species of greater economic importance as pests or beneficials;
– Herbology. Characterization of the weeds, damage and beneficial effects; examples of species of greater economic importance.

NAO