The course deals with the vascular plant diversity in Greece and extends to the flora of the Mediterranean region in general.

Knowledge: At the end of the course students should have: a) a good knowledge of the organisms included in the Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms and Angiosperms, especially the species of Greece (and the Mediterranean area, in general), b) comprehended the basic principles of classical Systematics and Phylogeny of those organisms, c) realized the role they play in the ecosystems and the biosphere in general, d) understood their practical importance and their utilization for the benefit of the man and the environment

Skills: At the end of the course students should have:  a) been familiar with the methodologies used to identify and study these organisms, b) the opportunity to recognize organisms in their natural habitat and collect appropriate samples for a herbarium.

Abilities: At the end of the course students should have: a) the opportunity to work with his/her fellow student and develop a team spirit, b) developed and improved his/her capacity for on-line access to libraries, databases and scientific journals, c) acquired relevant experience on analyzing and presenting bibliographic and research data.

Examination of plant diversity (Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms and Angiosperms) with an emphasis on the species that grow in Greece. The classification systems of plants, based on classical morphology and modern phylogeny are presented. The most important Greek families are surveyed, with examples of species having scientific and applied interest. Data on the floristic diversity, endemism and phytogeographical relationships of Greece as a whole and its individual regions are also presented.

1. Pteridophytes & Gymnosperms. Macroscopic study, morphological evaluation and taxonomic characteristics of representative genera growing in Greece. Observation of fresh & preserved material - 2-4. Angiosperms. Macroscopic study, morphological evaluation and taxonomic features of representative families and genera growing in Greece. Flower formulas and use of keys to identify plant family and genus. Observation of fresh & preserved material - 5. Treatment of plant tissue for the observation of chromosomes (karyotype) in Greek plants. Evaluation of the systematic information provided - 6. Phylogeny (cladistics): introduction to the creation and understanding of phylogenetic trees. Assessment of the information they provide.

Field exercise: Two-day practical exercise in the field: collection, processing and determination of botanical material in nature, creation of a herbarium collection by each student. Explanation of on-site methodology in cases of botanical field visits.

Prerequisite Courses: Botany

The course is offered to Erasmus students: Teaching in Greek language - Exams in English language.

The evaluation process is carried out in Greek language (there is the possibility in English for Erasmus students), with a final written examination of the whole course. The average grade of Laboratory Exercises contributes 40% to the final, total, course grade.