Koch's Postulates of Brown Rot disease
This practical resource complements the new ‘A level’ specification unit 'Biology & Disease'. Koch's postulates are fundamentally important in plant pathology. The practical sets out to determine if the fungus plant pathogen, Monilinia fructigena, is responsible for brown rot disease symptoms on apple. This practical is designed to draw technical skills and learning from a wide number of curriculum topics including; Cell Structure, Biology & Disease, Classification & Implementation. There are two files that accompany this resource.
Monilinia fructigena is deemed a low hazard fungus (category 1). It can be purchased from CABI (Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International) or alternatively; if the practical runs during the autumn months (October), students may be encouraged to source infected material from the environment (gardens, parks, orchards). The practical is designed to cover four lessons of 60 minutes duration (or more if needed and time permits); however, the practical can be shortened to two 60 minute lessons.