ENV414F

Ecological systems and management

Dr John Grindrod

4 or 6 points -2 hours per week -Second semester -Clayton -Prerequisites: None

Objectives On the completion of this subject candidates should have a sound knowledge of the fundamental principles of ecology; a basic understanding of some of the methods used to develop ecological knowledge; an appreciation of the importance of a holistic approach to ecological thinking which takes account of interactions between living things and their environment; an appreciation of the place in, and influence of, humans in ecosystems; an inclination and capacity to view environmental issues from an ecological perspective.

Synopsis Ecology is the study of living things, their environment, and interdependencies within and between the two. This subject provides a broad introduction to ecology, for candidates with no prior experience in the discipline. It aims to combine biological, biogeographical, geological and other perspectives in the overall study of living systems. Some fundamental biological and ecological concepts are reviewed, followed by examinations of selected ecological systems in Australasia, with emphasis on their present status as a product of their evolutionary and biogeographic past. The roles of natural and anthropogenic influences in shaping abiotic and biotic components of environment are central to this theme. Some lessons provided by ecological studies applicable to the management of living systems, particularly in the face of increasing demands on resources by humans, are also critically assessed.

Assessment (4 points - pre-1998 students) Two essays (2500 words): 80% -Field report (1500 words): 20%
Assessment (6 points - post-1998 students) One essay (3000 words): 60% -Field report (1500 words): 40%

Recommended texts

Begon M and others Ecology: Individuals, populations and communities Blackwell, 1986
Kormondy D J Concepts of ecology 2nd edn, Prentice-Hall, 1976
Krebs C J Ecology 3rd edn, Harper and Row, 1985
Odum E P Fundamentals of ecology 4th edn, Saunders, 1971
Recher H F and others A natural legacy Pergamon, 1979
Kershaw K A Quantitative and dynamic plant ecology 2nd edn, Edward Arnold, 1973

Back to the 1999 Arts Handbook