This subject introduces students to elements of ecology – ecosystems, biomes and ecological interactions. It focuses on current environmental issues by focusing on the environmental impacts that are the results of anthropogenic activities, with particular emphasis on the Australian environment. It is available to students from other science and non-science degrees as an introductory subject to the general area of environmental sciences. These impacts are discussed within the framework of the physical environment – plant, animal and microbial interactions within terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Among the various issues discussed are climate change, salinisation, eutrophication, and contaminant impacts. Ecosystem function and services, ecological footprint and sustainable use of resources are some of the concepts introduced in this subject. The specific topics are updated annually to include topics and examples of current concern.
Spring semester, City campus
This subject will be no longer offered from 2008.