Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives As for BOT3011.
Synopsis This subject consists of any two of the units `Ecology and evolution of the Australian flora', `Plant cell biology', `Plant-animal interactions' and `Community ecology'. The `Ecology and evolution' unit studies the distribution of major vegetation formations, dynamics of regeneration, and the origin of Australian land plants with special emphasis on rainforest and sclerophyll elements. There will be a field excursion in the semester break, and day excursions to various localities. `Plant cell biology' deals with structural and molecular aspects of developmental processes in plant cells and the response of cells to environmental stimuli. Topics include the dynamic behaviour of cytoskeleton, cell wall formation, cytokinesis, steady ion currents, intercellular communication, gravitropism, phototropism, and the role of calcium in plant development. Other topics examined at the cellular level include pollination biology, plant-plant and plant-fungal interactions and the effects of abioticfactors such as pollutants and herbicides. `Plant-animal interactions' reviews the scope of such interactions and describes approaches to their study, focusing primarily on terrestrial plants and their animal associates. Basic classes of interactions covered include plant/herbivore relationships, plant/pollinator interactions and seed predation and dispersal by animals. Implications of interactions are considered at the individual, population and community levels of organisation. `Community ecology' involves study of factors important in controlling local and biogeographic patterns of diversity. The unit considers patterns and processes within communities in relation to the development of ideas in community ecology, and integrates zoological and botanical concepts.
Assessment Examinations (5 hours): 60% + Practical work/fieldwork: 40%