History of botany scope of the subject as technology has opened up new techniques and areas of study. Modern molecular systematics, for example, entails the principles and techniques of taxonomy, molecular biology, computer science and more. Within botany there are a number of sub-disciplines that focus on particular plant groups, each with their own range of related studies (anatomy, morphology etc.). Included here are: phycology (algae), pteridology (ferns), bryology (mosses and liverworts) and palaeobotany (fossil plants) and their histories are treated elsewhere (see side bar). To this list can be added mycology, the study of fungi, which were once treated as plants, but
Biology: The Unity and Diversity of Life Biology: The Unity and Diversity of Life Biology: The Unity and Diversity of Life is a college-level introductory biology textbook that helps students learn how to apply critical thinking and scientific methods to developing their understanding of basic concepts in molecular biology and biochemistry, genetics, biotechnology, reproduction and embryonic development, anatomy and physiology of plants and animals, evolution, taxonomy, and ecology. The book is designed to create in students a broad foundation of knowledge in biology and is frequently used in AP Biology classes in American high schools. Each book includes an interactive CD-ROM with links to additional instructional material.