BIO3132 - Biology of Australian Vertebrates
General Unit Information
This unit examines the evolution and characteristics of the vertebrate fauna of Australasia in relation to the historical and current biogeography and ecology of the region. The primary focus will be the biology of the higher Australasian vertebrates and will be achieved by examination of the physiological, behavioural, and nutritional ecology of the major taxa.
Specific topics will include life history strategies of birds and mammals with particular emphasis on marsupials, clutch size in birds and the relationship to latitude, cooperative breeding in birds, physiological adaptations to temperate and arid conditions in reptiles, birds and mammals, and feeding adaptations in relation to the evolution of dietary resources.
Objectives
At the end of this unit students should have acquired the following: development of an understanding of the historical factors that have influenced the evolution
of the Australian vertebrate fauna; development of an understanding of the significance of physiological, behavioural and nutritional adaptations in vertebrates
in relation to their ecology; development of an introductory knowledge of techniques for investigating the functional biology of organisms; development of skills
in oral and visual communication of biological concepts.
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Specific Unit Information
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