Crop Biotechnology Overview SCBT33118

Course Summary

• Course Title: Crop Biotechnology
• Course Code: SCBT33118
• Course Coordinator: Mr. Jeevandran Sundarasekar
• Faculty: Faculty of Applied Science

Synopsis

• Crop Biotechnology is a subfield of agricultural/plant science utilizing advanced tools and techniques.
• Techniques include genetic engineering, molecular markers, molecular diagnostics, and plant tissue culture.
• The course covers various aspects like molecular farming, genetics, plant physiology, molecular plant pathology, and biochemistry.
• Students will master the synergistic factors in contemporary agriculture and plant science after completing the course.

Course Learning Outcomes

• Describe plant science knowledge and its importance in applied sciences and biotechnology.
• Demonstrate technical competency in operating basic equipment and procedures related to the course.
• Discuss creative and effective solutions to tackle plant science and agricultural biotechnology challenges.

Assessment

• Continuous Assessment (CA):
  • Test (CLO1): 20%
  • Practical report (CLO2): 10%
  • Presentation (CLO3): 20%
  • Total CA: 50%
• Finals:
  • Test (CLO1): 40%
  • OSPE (CLO2): 10%
  • Total Finals: 50%

Additional References

• Crop Biotechnology: Genetic Modification and Genome Editing (2018) by Halford, N.G.
• Plant biotechnology: The genetic manipulation of plants (2008) by Slater, A., Scott, N. W., & Fowler, M. R.
• Precision agriculture basics (2018) by Shannon, D. K., In Clay, D., & In Kitchen, N. R.
• DIY Hydroponic Gardens (2018) by Tyler Baras

Introduction to Crop Biotechnology

• This section introduces the course, probably with visuals.
• Mr. Jeevandran, Senior Lecturer, from the Faculty of Applied Science, is the likely speaker/course leader.

The Role of Agriculture in the World Economy

• A world map displaying the percentage of GDP contributed by agriculture in different countries.
• Data varies by region and ranges from less than 5% to over 50% and more of GDP per region.

Good Old Ways

• This section presents a timeline of plant domestication, categorized by region.
• Includes a list of crops and their approximate time of domestication (presented graphically).
• This section illustrates the long history of human interactions with plants.

Biotechnology and Food

• Biotechnology has impacted human life since ancient times (fermentation).
• Different technologies, like conventional crop breeding, the green revolution, and rDNA technology, are discussed.
• Specific examples of positive impacts (improved animal/plant health) and benefits related to these technologies.

Urgent Need for Alternative Methods

• Increasing food demand due to world population growth.
• Diseases, nutritional deficiencies, and climate change (biotic/abiotic stress) impacting crops and ecosystems.
• There is a need for new and novel non-food plant products.

Classical Agriculture Limitations

• Limitations of current agricultural methods to meet growing global plant commodity demands (food & biomaterials).

Plant Breeding and Technology

• Introduction to classical breeding methods and integrating them with modern technology.

Green Revolution Example

• A ten-fold increase in wheat production in India is presented as an example.
• The section describes associated shifts (from small-family farms to industrial farms, increased use of mechanization and inputs, and increased land efficiency for better profitability).
• The positive impact of the Green Revolution on world hunger and carrying capacity for humans.

Knowledge in Molecular Genetics and Omics

• Advances in genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and proteomics, drive agricultural biotechnology.

Plant Tissue Culture

• Rapid clonal multiplication, somatic breeding, and protoplast fusion are biotechnological spinoffs from plant tissue culture.

Use of IoT in Agriculture

• Drones, soil analysis, and precision livestock/water management systems use IoT for improved management efficiency.
• Satellite farming is used in precise crop management and responding to crop variability.

Aquaponics System

• Aquaponics integrates aquaculture (raising aquatic animals) with hydroponics (growing plants).
• Aquaculture waste provides nutrients for plants; bacteria convert ammonia into nitrates.
• A method for sustainable and efficient food production.

Vertical Farming

• Large-scale, indoor farming of crops in vertical layers on racks.
• Significant reduction in water consumption compared to traditional farming.
• Preventing foodborne illnesses (like E. coli) and reduced need for pesticides.

Agriculture 4.0

• Advancements in technology (sensors, devices), sophisticated technology use (robotics, and moisture sensors).
• Precision and data-driven improvements in efficiency, safety, and environmental friendliness.

Technologies, Maturity, and Direction

• Presents a map outlining different technologies (like hydroponics, algae, desert/sea agriculture), maturity levels, and position in the market.
• Technologies that promote food and biomaterial production and their potential.

Thank You

• Closing statement acknowledging the audience and/or promoting the hydroponic farming technique.

This quiz explores the essential concepts of Crop Biotechnology, a vital subfield of agricultural science. It covers genetic engineering, molecular markers, and plant tissue culture, helping students grasp the importance of plant sciences in biotechnology. Assess your understanding of the key techniques and learning outcomes associated with this course.