BIOL3701 Conservation Biology and Restoration Ecology

2016

4.5

2 x 1-hour lectures weekly
1 x 1-hour tutorial weekly

1 of BIOL1101, BIOD1102

BIOL8701 has been successfully completed

This topic will explore the scientific bases of biological conservation and the ways in which human impacts on natural ecosystems and habitats (both terrestrial and marine) may be ameliorated. It describes ecological and genetic principles underlying the conservation and restoration of biodiversity and will examine the application of these principles across a range of habitats. Topic content includes the use of bioremediation and revegetation in restoring disturbed and degraded habitats; values of 'ecosystem services' and natural products and the role of 'bioprospecting'.

This topic will explore the scientific bases of biological conservation and restoration ecology. Students will study ecological and genetic principles underlying the conservation of biodiversity and will examine the application of these principles across a range of habitats. They will also examine the application of various principles of biological conservation in a series of detailed case histories dealing with the conservation biology of plants and animals in Australia. Students will also gain an understanding of the ways in which the impacts of human societies on natural ecosystems and habitats are ameliorated; an understanding of the use of bioremediation and revegetation in restoring disturbed and degraded habitats; an appreciation of the values of biological resources in providing 'ecosystem services' and useful natural products (and the role of 'bioprospecting' in discovering these resources) and a knowledge of current examples of ecosystem conservation and restoration following various kinds of disturbances.

At the completion of the topic, students are expected to be able to:

1. Have a broad understanding of the scientific bases of biological conservation and restoration ecology
2. Understand many of the ecological and genetic principles underlying the conservation of biodiversity
3. Understand the ways in which the impacts of human societies on natural ecosystems and habitats are ameliorated
4. Have an understanding of the use of bioremediation and revegetation in restoring disturbed and degraded habitats
5. Have an appreciation of the values of biological resources in providing 'ecosystem services' and useful natural products (and the role of 'bioprospecting' in discovering these resources)
6. Have an understanding of current examples of ecosystem conservation and restoration following various kinds of disturbances
7. Apply skills gained in problem solving, critical thinking, and in the development of written and oral presentations