BIO3122

Freshwater ecology ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Professor P S Lake

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: The ecology of the abiotic and biotic components of freshwater ecosystems, especially the dynamics of energy and nutrients, the trophic structure and interspecific interactions, and the patterns and regulation of diversity in the aquatic ecosystems. The effects of disturbances, both natural and human-generated. Management problems, especially restoration and conservation strategies.

Objectives: On completion of this unit students will have a grounding in the physico-chemical attributes of freshwater systems and an understanding of how these attributes influence the ecological structure and function of these systems. Students will come to understand the nature of important ecological components in freshwater systems, such trophic structures and subsidies, types and strengths of interspecific interactions, and the role of disturbance. Students will also understand how ecological knowledge can be applied to help resolve resource management problems such as restoration and the impacts of invading species.

Assessment: Examination (2 hours): 60% + Practical work/field excursion: 40%

Contact Hours: Two 1-hour lectures, equivalent of 3 hours laboratory plus field work per week

Prerequisites: 12 points including BIO2011 or BIO2051, and either BIO2231, ZOO2031, BIO2181, BOT2041 or BOT2042