This course deals with the processes determining the abundance of organisms and how population abundance changes through time. The course begins by identifying the demographic characteristics of a population and the techniques used for quantifying these characteristics. The impact of abiotic factors on the nature of population change will be examined. The role of the biotic processes of intra- and inter-specific competition, predation, disease and herbivory on the dynamic behaviour of populations will be discussed. An important component of the course is introducing the quantitative methods and approaches used in population ecology to determine the status of populations and predict population behaviour. To this end, the course consists of weekly tutorials where, as well as being introduced to the use of several software packages, students obtain experience with some of the quantitative techniques introduced in the course.

Honours pathway option (HPO)

Entry to this option will be subject to the approval of the course convener. Students undertaking this option replace the essay, with a literature-based assignment examining the implication of population dynamic theory on the management of pest populations or the commercial harvesting of a species. Students will be guided through this exercise and will meet with the lecturer on a regular basis throughout the latter half of the course. The prerequisite for this option is a mark of at least 80 in BIOL1003 and the agreement of the course coordinator.

Assessment is based on an optional mid-term quiz (20 per cent), 'practical' test (20 per cent), essay (30 per cent) and a final exam (50 per cent). The best mark obtained on the mid-term quiz or 'practical' test is used in calculating the final mark.

BIOL1003, STAT1003 is strongly recommended.