Shan Kothari

Area of Study / Keywords

species interactions photosynthesis water relations phenology remote sensing

Research

I am a plant ecophysiologist, which means that I work to understand the patterns in plant communities based on fundamental mechanisms of how plants work. Some of my current interests include:

1. Predicting when and where trees will die from drought using physiology, modeling, and remote sensing
2. Pushing the limits of rapid phenotyping technologies, especially spectroscopy, in ecological contexts
3. Understanding why some winter-deciduous trees (but not others) turn red in autumn
4. Explaining why species transmit different amounts of light through their crowns

PL SC 221 - Introduction to Plant Science

Principles of plant science for use in agriculture, forestry and environmental sciences. The course covers anatomical and physiological characteristics of vascular and non-vascular plants, including cellular structures, plant reproduction, development and growth, and key functions such as photosynthesis, and water and nutrient transport. The course emphasizes plant structure and function in the context of environmental conditions and genetic adaptation, essential for managed and natural ecosystems under environmental change. Not to be taken if credit received for BOT 205 or REN R 121.

REN R 121 - Plant Structure and Function

Principles of plant science for use in agriculture, forestry and environmental sciences. The course covers anatomical and physiological characteristics of vascular and non-vascular plants, including cellular structures, plant reproduction, development and growth, and key functions such as photosynthesis, and water and nutrient transport. The course emphasizes plant structure and function in the context of environmental conditions and genetic adaptation, essential for managed and natural ecosystems under environmental change. Not to be taken if credit received for PL SC 221.

REN R 703 - Dendrology, Ecology & Biodiversity

Foundations of dendrology, forest ecology, and biodiversity in the context of sustainable forestry. Covers tree identification, tree physiology, growth and adaptation mechanisms, succession and stand dynamics, nutrient and carbon cycling, ecosystem and site classification. Includes an introduction to biodiversity and wildlife management principles relevant to forest conservation, with a focus on species, ecosystems, and management practices characteristic of northern and temperate forests. Designed for graduate students pursuing a professional Master of Forestry degree.

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