What are the relationships between plants, animals and their environment (ecology), and the geographical patterns of biological diversity around the world (biogeography)? In this module we will draw on ideas from physical geography, evolutionary biology and reproductive biology to help you understand how individuals, populations and communities are distributed, and how these organisms interact with their physical environment. We will begin with how the physiology and reproductive biology of plants has shaped the variety of habitats, ecosystems and biomes seen in the natural world today. Theories concerning how these geographical patterns have been affected by complex historical and current factors will also be explored. You will explore key concepts in population ecology, community ecology and island biogeography through practical classes and field work. The module will provide the foundational knowledge to help you understand how biogeographical and ecological principles inform global conservation strategies, and help us better understand how to manage threats to biodiversity from environmental change.
Lecture 23, Seminar 1, Fieldwork 4, Practical Study 2, Computer Practical 2
1,000 words Report. Assessment Details: Practical report worth 0.33%.
1,000 words Report. Assessment Details: Practical report worth 0.33%.
1-hour Test. Assessment Details: Online MCQ quiz worth 0.34%. This Assessment is Pass Compulsory.
Reassessment Method: Like for like
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1) Demonstrate a foundational understanding of plant biology and how this influences the formation and geographic patterning of habitats, ecosystems and biomes across the world
2) is able to recognise and identify fundamental ecological concepts and how they apply to individuals, populations and communities, and interactions with the physical environment
3) outline the core concepts of biogeography, including speciation, extinction, dispersal, continental drift and glaciation
4) Describe the major biomes across the world and how these have been influenced by historic, as well as contemporary, factors
5) Appreciate how ecological and biogeographical theories can inform conservation strategies and practice and help us better understand the threats to biodiversity from habitat and climate change.
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