Program Overview

BIOL3007: Ecology

Overview

This unit explores the dynamics of ecological systems, and considers the interactions between individual organisms and populations, organisms and the environment, and ecological processes. Lectures are grouped around four dominant themes: Interactions, Evolutionary Ecology, The Nature of Communities, and Conservation and Management. Emphasis is placed throughout on the importance of quantitative methods in ecology, including sound planning and experimental designs, and on the role of ecological science in the conservation, management, exploitation and control of populations. Relevant case studies and examples of ecological processes are drawn from marine, freshwater and terrestrial systems, with plants, animals, fungi and other life forms considered as required. Students will have some opportunity to undertake short term ecological projects, and to take part in discussions of important and emerging ideas in the ecological literature.

Unit Details and Rules

• Managing Faculty or University School: Science
• Study Level: Undergraduate
• Academic Unit: Life and Environmental Sciences Academic Operations
• Credit Points: 6

Enrolment Rules

• Prerequisites: 12 credit points of BIOL2XXX or 6 credit points of BIOL2XXX and (MBLG2X72 or GEGE2X01 or GENE2002 or AVBS2XXX or ENSC2001)
• Corequisites: None
• Prohibitions: BIOL3907
• Assumed Knowledge: Basic understanding of ecology concepts, species biology and data analysis

Learning Outcomes

• LO1: Explain key concepts and processes in ecology
• LO2: Demonstrate how experimental evidence informs ecological theory
• LO3: Discuss and critically evaluate relevant research articles
• LO4: Demonstrate the principles used in well-designed ecological research to advance knowledge
• LO5: Assess the role of applied ecology in solving environmental problems

Unit Availability

The unit is available in the following sessions:

• Semester 2 2025: Normal day, Camperdown / Darlington, Sydney
• Semester 2 2026: Normal day, Camperdown / Darlington, Sydney
• Previous years: Various sessions and locations available, including remote options.