Ecology and Conservation

(4 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This unit examines the ecological principles driving the major ecosystems of the world and ecological processes behind the world's major conservation issues. It aims to develop in students the core foundations for an understanding of Ecology and its application in conservation. Lectures will focus on the ecology of the major terrestrial and marine biomes of the world. Application of ecological theory and methods to practical conservation problems will be integrated throughout the unit of study. Practical sessions will provide hands-on experience in ecological sampling and data handling to understand the ecology of marine and terrestrial environments, as well as ecological simulations to understand processes. The unit aims to develop in students the core foundations for an understanding of the principles of Ecology and its application in Conservation Biology. What should students expect to achieve in this unit? Familiarity with the major biomes of the world for terrestrial and marine systems An understanding of the fundamental principles driving ecological processes for individual populations though to ecosystems An appreciation of the major conservation threats to biodiversity in Australia and the world and for the importance of rigorous, evidence-based solutions for conservation management An improved ability to conduct independent scientific research and to communicate the findings in written reports and oral presentations. A deeper understanding of your own learning style and how to work effectively in teams Learning Outcomes As a result of successfully completed this unit students should be able to: 1. Understand the characteristics of the major biomes of the world for terrestrial and marine systems the fundamental principles driving ecological processes for individual populations though to ecosystems the major conservation threats to biodiversity in Australia and the world the philosphical differences between ecology and conservation 2. Appreciate the inhernet complexity in natural systems and in conservation issues the importance of ecology to conservation management the importance of rigorous, evidence-based solutions for conservation management identify the ecology of the major terrestrial and marine biomes of the world. 3. Pose ecological questions and design appropriate ecological field sampling regimes 4. Critique ecological literature and assess evidience for conservation issues 5. Present and analyse ecological data to test hypotheses