BIO461 Applied Ecological Conservation (8)
CSU Discipline Area: Biological Sciences (BILSC)
Duration: One session
Abstract:
The need for scientifically trained conservation managers has never been greater with so many of our species and ecosystems at risk of extinction. This subject is intended to allow students to develop an understanding of the main ecological concepts fundamental to conservation theory, and to present tools and models that are important to the application of conservation ecology. This will give students the necessary theoretical and applied skills required for them to assist in the management of ecosystems, habitats or species. As this subject discusses a range of tools and models, there is a statistical and mathematical component. The subject contains a total estimated workload of 150 hours.
+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations
| Session 1 | |
|---|---|
| Distance | Albury-Wodonga |
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: BIO461
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.
Enrolment restrictions:
Available only to students enrolled in courses at postgraduate level
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
be able to:
- describe the principles, issues and philosophy of ecological conservation;
- demonstrate a knowledge of the major ecological processes that influence scarcity and diversity of flora and fauna;
- evaluate critically tools such as population viability analyses;
- write and reference a paper in the scientific style;
- produce a reader/media friendly interpretation of scientific materials;
- explain the economic and legislative restraints imposed on conservation
Syllabus:
The subject will cover the following topics:
- concepts and issues of ecological conservation
- patterns of diversity and rarity
- fitness and viability of populations
- habitat fragmentation
- community stability and structure
- threatened Australian habitats
- rare and endangered species
- assessment of species conservation status and management priorities
- managing ecosystems for diversity
- ecological principles of restoration, reclamation, regeneration and re-introduction
- the role of politics and education in conservation processes
The information contained in the 2013 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 24 April 2013. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.