Life Sciences
Biodiversity & Ecology
Module code: C1811
Level 4
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Laboratory
Assessment modes: Coursework, Unseen examination
On this module, you'll be introduced to biodiversity and ecology. You’ll develop core principles in phylogeny, with examples from taxonomic groups of organisms to illustrate the scientific classification of living organisms.
Fundamental aspects of ecology that will be covered include:
- population ecology (population growth and regulation and species interactions, e.g. competition, predation and mutualisms)
- community ecology (trophic structures and food webs and ecosystem services)
- macro-ecology (local and global patterns of biodiversity, factors controlling species distribution, abundance and biogeography).
Laboratory practicals will help you develop your identification skills. You’ll also apply identification skills and data collection experiences in field practicals.
Module learning outcomes
- Demonstrate knowledge of basic theories and concepts in ecology, and an ability to apply them to experimental evidence
- Understand the scientific classification of living organisms and demonstrate a broad knowledge of the diversity of life.
- Demonstrate data handling and analysis skills for a range of numerical data sets and demonstrate the ability to use simple keys to identify selected taxa to class, order and family
- Establish the ability to write with scientific rigour