Marine ecosystems play a central role in the health and function of our planet. This course examines the key processes that shape and maintain marine communities, and how healthy marine ecosystems may be maintained in the face of human impacts and climate change. Topics covered include: marine productivity, marine population and community ecology, biogeography and connectivity, sustainable resource management and marine conservation. Current issues facing our marine resources will be the basis of assessment items (e.g. marine parks, overfishing), with critical application of marine ecological theory to these issues being emphasised. Students will gain first-hand experience in the quantitative methods used to describe and assess marine communities, as well as some new presentation skills via novel assessment items such as the role-playing press conference.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

Assessment will be based on:

• Scientific Report (25%): You will collect data as a class (LO 2, 4), make your own analysis and evaluation of the data-based evidence (LO 1, 2), then present your findings in the style of a scientific article (LO 3).
• Environmental Status Report (25%): Working as a team (LO 4), you will research current scientific information and relevant legislation on a current marine ecological issue (LO 6). You will present your findings and recommendations in a plain-English written report (LO 1, 3).
• Press Conference (10%): Working as a team (LO 4), you will present your findings from the status report as a media release (LO 3) and field questions from a role-playing audience in a staged press conference (LO 5).
• Final Theory Exam (40%): You will be asked to think critically, analyse available information and present a logical argument on questions concerning marine ecological systems (LO 1).

Two lectures per week plus a combination of practicals and field work.

Completion of 96 units, including BIOL2112 OR with permission of convener