BIO2103

Field methods in botany

(SCI)

Dr Jenny Read

6 points + Summer semester (2 weeks; November - December) + Clayton, and field station + Prerequisites: 12 points of BIO or BOT units (any level) + Prohibitions: BIO3103

Synopsis: This subject will be held at Clayton-campus and a field station (to be advised). The course focuses on modern methods used by field botanists to study vegetation patterns as part of ecological studies. It includes discussion of a wide range of sampling methods used to survey vegetation and an introduction to some methods of floristic data analysis. Plant identification is a major component of the practical course. The course also includes an introduction to measurement of relevant environmental data, including soil description and analysis and to field-based ecophysiology. Each topic will be placed in the context of plant and vegetation responses to environmental factors.

Assessment: Field project: 40% + Practical reports: 30% + Herbarium collection: 20% + Quiz: 10%