Café Scientifique – A Short History of Plant Pathology and the Pests That Have Changed Our World

A Short History of Plant Pathology and the Pests That Have Changed Our World by David Fletcher

Thursday 29 January 7.30-9.30pm (Doors open 7pm)

Come along to our Indoor Table Top Sale where a selection of stall holders will be selling a range of pre-loved and handmade items.

Synopsis: For centuries human societies have recognised that plants can become diseased and that this has had a profound impact on food production. The earliest references to plant diseases may be found in the Bible, but until relatively recently a clear understanding of plant diseases founded on a systematic scientific rationale was absent, and largely descriptive. It wasn’t until the 19th century and the evolution of ‘Germ Theory’ that plant pathology was born, spurred on by late blight of potatoes and the Potato Famine in Ireland. This talk will chart the major diseases and pests of plants that have had profound impacts on human societies, how plant pathology has evolved, and will touch on future threats exacerbated by climate change and globalisation.

Cafe Scientifique Brampton is a place where, for the price of a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, anyone can come to explore the latest ideas in science and technology.

Cost: £4.35 (incl. booking fee) Book online here or £5 on the door

Free for students and Under 18s (please contact the organiser in advance) timothycoombe@damhead.me