207-160 Forest Botany & Ecology

The subject covers the areas of:

• basic plant structure, classification, taxonomy and identification, functional relationships, trophic levels, micro-environment and adaptation;

• habitat and niche;

• limiting factors, variability and diversity of forest populations, spacing, territoriality and social hierarchies;

• population growth and development of forest stands;

• community structure and species composition;

• interaction within the community and the external environment; and

• community change, succession and ecosystem stability and response to manipulation.

A 2-hour examination worth 40% and up to five practical exercises totalling 60%.