LSC1643

Biodiversity and bioresources

J Baldwin

4 points
* Two 1-hour lectures and one 2-hour practical
* First semester
* Clayton

Objectives Students should gain an understanding of biological diversity and biodiversity issues valuable for multidisciplinary studies in environmental science, engineering, earth sciences, genetics, botany and zoology.

Synopsis In this subject, biodiversity is used as an organising theme to provide a perspective for human interaction with the biological environment and to provide a foundation and a rationale for conservation and management of genetic, species and ecosystem diversity. This subject gives an overview of biological diversity by considering the origins and unfolding of life on earth, and the processes that have led to its current distribution and diversity. Controversies surrounding the state of knowledge of present day biodiversity, the means of measuring it, and the magnitude of losses resulting from human activities are examined. Means of efficiently funding and developing bioresources are considered and some of the policy issues surrounding biodiversity and its management.

Assessment Theory examination (1.5 hours): 50%
* Project reports: 30%
* Practical examination: 20%

Prescribed texts

Primack R B Essentials of conservation biology Sinauer, 1993

Recommended texts

Beattie A J Biodiversity: Australia's living wealth Reed
Wilson E O The diversity of life Lane, 1992