791-110 Australian Ecosystems I

Credit Points

Coordinator

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

This subject is designed to enable the student to:

• understand and to make basic interpretations of the biotic and abiotic factors that affect species distribution and ecosystem function using a system approach;
• provide knowledge of the common vegetation types of Victoria;
• understand the ecological interaction between organisms;
• understand the dynamics of animal and plant populations, and to utilise this knowledge in the survey or animal and plant species;
• understand the concepts of conservation and resource utilisation.

The content includes: The impact to topography, climate and populations on ecosystem structure and function; the vegetation types of Victoria; species interactions; population dynamics; plant and animal survey techniques; sustainability and conservation issues.

Assessment

Two hour examination (35%); three assignments of 1000, 1500 and 2000 words (15%, 25%, 25%).