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  3. Blue Planet - Intro to Marine Biology

Blue Planet - Intro to Marine Biology (EVSC20004)

Undergraduate level 2Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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This subject will introduce students to the interrelationships among marine organisms and the ocean they live in and how these interactions are changing as a consequence of human activities. Topics covered include: ocean circulation, productivity and the impacts of climate change; coastal upwelling, food web dynamics and the impacts of fishing; coastal currents, species ranges and the effects of introduced marine pests; and land-sea connections, nutrient cycling and toxic algal blooms. How to study the interactions between the ocean and its flora and fauna will be investigated through a during a compulsory weekend field excursion. 

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • demonstrate how various elements of the living marine environment interrelate and are part of the complex system we know as the world's oceans;
  • demonstrate knowledge of key human impacts on the marine environment;
  • apply basic tools to collect data to study and understand the marine environment;
  • analyse experimental data to understand the influence of physical processes on marine plants and animals; and
  • effectively communicate scientific results based on analysis of biological data through a written report.

Generic skills

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following generic skills:

  • an ability to approach and assimilate new knowledge;
  • an ability to use that knowledge to evaluate theories and communicate ideas; and
  • skills in field sampling techniques and how to apply these skills to investigate marine environmental issues.

Last updated: 3 October 2024