91154 Ecology
6cpRequisite(s): 91101 Cells, Genetics and Evolution OR 91102 Animal Function and Diversity OR 91123 Biocomplexity
Management and remediation of the vast array of environmental problems facing the globe require a rigorous, scientific understanding of how ecosystems work. In this second-year subject students are introduced to fundamental ecological principles underpinning the structure and function of ecosystems.
Topics covered include variation in the abundance and distribution of organisms across a range of spatial and temporal scales, the flow of energy and matter through ecosystems (with an emphasis on global variation in primary productivity), species interactions, life-history variation, ecological modelling, and the application of ecological knowledge to the conservation and management of biodiversity.
Theoretical and empirical examples are provided using a broad cross-section of organisms (e.g. invertebrates and vertebrates) and ecosystems (e.g. aquatic and terrestrial). Field work in several different systems (e.g. woodland vegetation, rocky shore habitat) during practical classes is compulsory. This subject is an important link to a range of third-year subjects that require a deep understanding of ecological concepts.
Typical availability
Autumn semester, City campus
Fee information
2009 contribution for post-2008 Commonwealth-supported students: $520.25
Note: Students who commenced prior to 1 January 2008 should consult the Student contribution charges for Commonwealth supported students
Not all students are eligible for Commonwealth Supported places.
2009 amount for undergraduate domestic fee-paying students: $2,575.00
Note: Fees for Postgraduate domestic fee-paying students and international students are charged according to the course they are enrolled in. Students should refer to the Annual Fees Schedule.
Subject EFTSL: 0.125Access conditions
Note: The requisite information presented in this subject description covers only academic requisites. Full details of all enforced rules, covering both academic and admission requisites, are available at Access conditions and My Student Admin.
