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Module

BIO2028 : Biodiversity, Ecology and Conservation

  • Offered for Year: 2020/21
  • Module Leader(s): Dr Gavin Stewart
  • Lecturer: Dr Kirsty McInnes, Dr James Kitson
  • Owning School: Natural and Environmental Sciences
  • Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Semester 2 Credit Value: 20
ECTS Credits: 10.0

Aims

To develop students’ appreciation of biodiversity science, ecological theory and conservation biology as evidence-based scientific disciplines; to provide the background for further study of biodiversity, ecology and conservation at Stage 3.

Outline Of Syllabus

This module deals with the diversification of life from its origins to the present day, and the natural and anthropogenic influences that have produced patterns of biodiversity observed in space and through time. The module develops theory of ecological patterns and processes. Against this background it also deals with conservation biology, focusing on the presentation and interpretation of evidence about impacts on species and ecosystems, and the exploration of potential solutions to problems based on both science and practice.

Lectures cover the following topics:

Ecological concepts in population, community and ecosystem biology
Ecological models
Measuring biodiversity and assessing patterns in space and time
Ecosystem functioning and resilience
Conservation of populations and ecosystems
Protected area selection, design and management
Challenges in conservation science

Field visits will explore the role of collections and archives in biodiversity research and education, and visit a local conservation area.
Field and computer practicals will cover ecological theory and data analysis of:
Life history tables, keystone species, intermediate disturbance hypothesis and quantitative analysis of biodiversity.

Teaching Methods

Module leaders are revising this content in light of the Covid 19 restrictions.
Revised and approved detail information will be available by 17 August.

Assessment Methods

Module leaders are revising this content in light of the Covid 19 restrictions.
Revised and approved detail information will be available by 17 August.

Reading Lists

Timetable