Conservation biology
Dr Alan Lill
8 points * 7 hours per week * Second semester * Clayton * Prerequisites: None, but preference given to applicants who have passed LSC2011 if quota applies
This subject can be taken independently of, or as a logical extension to, LSC2011, the latter part of which considers factors that have contributed to human dominance on earth. The subject deals with human impact on the environment and explores possible solutions to some of the problems humans have generated. The topics covered include the importance of biodiversity; river impoundments; heavy metal pollution and eutrophication of inland waters; marine pollution; the effects of habitat destruction, fire, overexploitation and exotic species on the terrestrial biota; land degradation, salination and desertification; atmospheric pollution; ozone depletion; the greenhouse effect; industrial emissions and acid rain; nuclear radiation and warfare; principles and ethics of conservation. Three lectures and four hours practical per week.
Assessment
Examinations (2 hours): 50% * Practical work - continuous assessment: 50%