BIO3021

Marine biology

Dr John Beardall

6 points - First semester - Clayton - Two 1-hour lectures, equivalent of 3 hours laboratory plus field work per week - Prerequisite: 16 points (BSc[Env] 12 points) from level 2 BOT/ZOO/BIO - to include either BOT2041 or BOT2042 or ZOO2031

Objectives This subject will provide students with a basic knowledge of the diversity of marine life, an understanding of the basic physicochemical and physiological processes underlying the productivity of marine environments and of the ecological dynamics of marine ecosystems, an appreciation of the role of humans in disturbing and exploiting marine ecosystems and a knowledge of some of the important current trends in marine biology. Students will also have developed a critical, analytical approach to scientific research and developed skills in writing scientific reports and in oral communication of scientific information.

Synopsis This subject deals with the biology of marine environments. Special emphasis is placed on the diversity, ecology and ecophysiology of marine organisms and the environments in which they live, including the impact of humans. These topics will be placed in the context of specific marine ecosystems including coastal habitats (rocky intertidal zones, seagrass and mangrove systems, estuaries and kelp forests), coral reefs, open oceans, the deep sea and polar ecosystems. The practical component will be taught as a field course at the Queenscliff Marine Station in February. It will teach problem-solving skills for field and laboratory-based research projects in marine habitats. Alternative practicals will be offered to students unable to attend the Queenscliff field trip.

Assessment Examination (2.5 hours): 60% - Practical work/field work/projectwork: 40%

Recommended texts

Clayton M N and King R J Biology of marine plants Longman Cheshire, 1990
Underwood A J and Chapman M G Coastal marine ecology of temperate Australia UNSW Press, 1995

Back to the 1999 Science Handbook