BIO3021 · Marine biology

Overview

This unit investigates the organisms and the processes that drive marine ecosystems. We deal with the trophic structure of marine ecosystems, including primary and secondary production, microbial loops, food webs and their importance for marine fisheries. The implications of the characteristic life cycles of marine organisms to their geographical distribution are also considered. These topics are placed in the context of specific marine ecosystems including coastal habitats, coral reefs, open oceans, the deep sea and polar ecosystems. The practical component comprises a field course in February where you will work in small groups on specific aspects of marine biology.

Areas of study: Developmental biology Ecology and conservation biology Plant sciences Zoology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe the diversity and ecological importance of marine life;
2. Explain the fundamental physiochemical and physiological processes underlying the productivity of marine environments;
3. Explain the ecological dynamics of marine ecosystems;
4. Discuss the impact of human activity on the sustainability of marine ecosystems;
5. Demonstrate advanced scientific skills in project design, data collection, analysis and writing.

Workload

• One 2-hour workshop; • The equivalent of three hours applied sessions/field work and • Seven hours of independent study per week.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.