1. Handbook
  2. Subjects
  3. Marine Botany

Marine Botany (BOTA30001)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5Not available in 2024

You’re viewing the 2024 Handbook:
Or view archived Handbooks

Overview

FeesLook up fees

(An enrolment quota of 30 students applies to this subject)

This subject will introduce students to the biology of marine and estuarine plants (seaweeds, seagrasses and phytoplankton). Fieldwork focuses on the identification, diversity and ecology of Australia's unique marine flora. Topics to be covered include:

  • biodiversity and evolution
  • structure, life history and classification
  • distribution and ecology
  • human impacts and commercial uses
  • gain, spread and loss of photosynthesis in protists
  • role of phytoplankton in the marine environment

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject students should be able to:

  • Describe and explain the biology, diversity and evolution of Australian marine plants and protists; the unique nature of the Australian seaweed flora; the role of algae in marine ecosystems; the diverse cell biology of marine protists; and current themes in algal research;
  • Demonstrate practical skills in identifying common seaweeds and marine protists, and in processing, preserving and culturing marine plants and plankton;
  • Exercise independent critical thought and rational enquiry;
  • Analyse and evaluate technical literature;
  • Operate as part of a team to perform scientific tasks and interpret scientific data.

Generic skills

Upon completion of this subject, students should be capable of:

  • Independent critical thought and rational enquiry;
  • Reading and interpreting technical literature;
  • Working as a team to perform scientific tasks.

Last updated: 3 October 2024