Undergraduate - UnitBIO3810 - Tropical aquatic biology

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit examines the biology of tropical aquatic ecosystems. It focuses on South East Asia, (the Malaysian region in particular) but will also encompass aquatic environments in other parts of the tropics. The ecology and diversity of communities in coral reefs, oceans, sandy and rocky shores, estuaries, lakes, rivers and swamps is examined. The students will gain an understanding of the physical and chemical factors that affect these environments. Conservation and management issues such as the impacts of tourism, pollution, fisheries, wetland drainage and river regulation are studied.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit students will have gained an introduction to the diversity and ecology of freshwater and marine environments in the tropics with particular reference to the Malaysian region. The students will gain an understanding of the conservation and management issues relating to aquatic ecosystems. The students will develop skills to design and analyse sampling programs to examine the flora and fauna of aquatic habitats and to assess changes.

Assessment

Essay: 15%
Class presentation: 5%
Mid-semester test: 20%
Field trip assignment: 5%
Field trip practical report: 20%
Final examination: 35%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Catherine Yule

Contact hours

Two 1-hour lectures, one 1-hour tutorial and one 3-hour practical session or equivalent per week

Prerequisites

BIO1011, BIO1022. Recommended: BIO2011

Prohibitions

SCM3011