Course overview
The aim of this course is to introduce the principles of ecology and biodiversity and familiarise students with flora and fauna of Australian ecosystems through practical methods of studying plants and animals in the field, the lab and the greenhouse. The study of healthy ecosystems begins with an introduction to practical field sampling of plant and animal populations and the physical environment where they survive. Complex ecosystems are described by their structure and function. Ecosystem management topics apply principles of conserving and maintaining integrity through management of fire, pests, biodiversity management and restoration. Basic theory includes topics on ecology and evolution in, Australian ecosystems. Practical lab skills include plant propagation, assessment, and biological survey methods.
Course learning outcomes
- Describe the role of biodiversity in ecosystems and its importance in world biomes.
- Describe the interrelationships between plants and animals in natural and artificial habitats.
- Identify and categorise flora and fauna in the field.
- Measure plant and animal populations and communities and analyse numerical data in study groups.
- Propagate plants and seeds in the lab and the greenhouse.
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The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.