Plant Ecophysiology
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This course is designed for ecologists, wetland biologists, and wildlife biologists seeking to learn how plants survive in their environment. Emphasis is placed on understanding the developmental and physiological plasticity exhibited across the plant kingdom. Students who participate in class will be able to (i) explain the environmental challenges that limit plant growth and (ii) discuss the physiological mechanisms plants have evolved to adapt to these constraints. Some topics include water balance, plant “decision making” as it relates to nutrients and photosynthesis, allelopathy, and the elemental defense hypothesis.
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Fall: September 2 – November 23, 2025 (Early bird ends August 3rd)
*Early bird saves $75
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No formal plant biology classes are required.
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Textbook: Plant Physiology and Development. Seventh Edition. Lincoln Taiz, Ian Max Møller, Angus Murphy, and Eduardo Zeiger Emeritus Author. ISBN: 9780197577240. https://exa.unne.edu.ar/biologia/fisiologia.vegetal/PlantPhysiologyTaiz2002.pdf
Various webpages and other resources introduced throughout the course
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Module 1: Plant Evolution- algae to angiosperms
To understand the evolution of different phylum across the plant kingdom and discuss the unique aspects of plant cells and anatomy.
Module 2: Water and nutrient balance in plants
To understand why water and nutrient availability constrain plant growth, and the different evolutionary strategies to survive when these factors become limiting.
Module 3: Physiological and developmental plasticity in plants
To understand how hormones influence plant growth and development during uncertain environmental conditions.
Module 4: Ecological aspects of photosynthesis
How photosynthesis is measured in the field
Adaptations to photosynthesis
How plants respond when light is limiting or excessively toxic
Module 5: Abiotic stress physiology
To understand how plants respond to salt, heavy metals, flooding, and drought
Module 6: Plant interactions with beneficial microbes, pathogens, and insects.
To appreciate the vital symbiotic relationships between plants and microbes, and to discover how plants have evolved a vast array of chemicals to deter herbivores.
Module 7: Approaches to improving food security
COURSE OPTIONS & INFORMATION (Review chart above, then click below)
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FORMAT:
3 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace
Get instructor support via email, discussion threads, group meetings, and one-on-one appointments
After working through the course materials, set up an optional meeting with the instructor to discuss your own personal project from work or school
CONTINUING EDUCATION:
16 CEUs with The Wildlife Society
Go to our Continuing Education Page for more details
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FORMAT:
12 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace
Get instructor support for the 3-month term via email, discussion threads, group meetings, and one-on-one appointments
Receive Mentor Direct Constructive Feedback on your Capstone Project and a 1:1 Mentor-Mentee Session to refine your intervention plans and enhance your project's impact.
CONTINUING EDUCATION:
16 CEUs with The Wildlife Society
Go to our Continuing Education Page for more details
CERTIFICATIONS:
Earn 1 credit towards a professional certificate in Conservation Planning with CWS
Earn an additional 1-2 academic credits with an Applied Project
Go to our Academic Credit Page for details
Instructor
Dr. Doug Van Hoewyk
Wetland/Environmental Scientist
SCHOLARSHIPS
Full scholarships are available to participants from countries designated as “lower income” and “lower middle income” in the World Bank List of Economies. Please see our CWS World Scholars Program page for details.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations 30 days or more before the start date are not subject to cancellation fees. Cancellations <30 days before the start date are subject to a 50% cancellation fee. No refunds once the course begins.