BIO3122 - Freshwater Ecology

• Unit information
• General Unit Information & Objectives
• Specific Unit Information

General Unit Information

The unit deals with the ecology of the abiotic and biotic components of freshwater ecosystems; both those of standing and running waters. Emphasis is placed on the ecological dynamics of communities and ecosystems with emphasis on the dynamics of energy and nutrients, the trophic structure and interspecific interactions, and the patterns and regulation of diversity in the aquatic ecosystems.

The effects of disturbances, both natural and human-generated are outlined whilst management problems and conservation strategies will be discussed.

The practical component is taught through fieldwork on a weekend excursion and through practical work on the Clayton campus. The excursion will serve to illustrate the basic properties of a range of aquatic ecosystems and to develop skills in resolving ecological problems.

In 2008 the field excursion will be held in the Buxton and Marysville region over the weekend of the 5th-7th September.

Objectives

With the completion of BIO3122, students will have a grounding in the physico-chemical attributes of freshwater systems and an understanding of how these attributes influence the ecological structure and function of these systems.  Students will come to understand the nature of important ecological components in freshwater systems, such trophic structures and subsidies, types and strengths of interspecific interactions, and the role of disturbance.  Students will also understand how ecological knowledge can be applied to help resolve resource management problems such as restoration and the impacts of invading species.

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Specific Unit Information

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