BIO3091 · Biology of Australian vegetation

Overview

This unit focuses on the factors influencing the distribution, composition and structure of vegetation and the characteristics of the component plant species that enable them to survive in diverse environments. Methods of quantifying vegetation structure, composition and physiological responses are covered in the practical course. Case studies will focus on Australian species. There is a four-day field excursion (fee payable).

Areas of study: Ecology and conservation biology Environmental science 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. Recognize the characteristics of Australia’s major vegetation types and identify the key threats impacting those vegetation types;
2. Develop and test hypotheses on how environments cause functional and structural differences between plants;
3. Evaluate evidence on how fundamental physiological and ecological processes influence vegetation types and their component species;
4. Demonstrate competence in methodological approaches used in the plant sciences, including the field collection, study design, interpretation, analysis and synthesis of biological data;
5. Effectively communicate the results of field and project work in a range of modes and for a variety of audiences;
6. Work effectively, responsibly and safely in peer and team contexts on field projects in remote locations.

Workload

• One 2-hour workshop per week; • Three-hour laboratory, field work or equivalent (6 sessions per semester); • One 4-day field trip, including travel days and • Seven-hours independent study per week.

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