Principles of Ecology

This course provides a fundamental grounding in the main concepts in and applications of ecology, the study of relationships between organisms and their environment. The most important concepts in population, community, landscape and ecosystem ecology are covered. These are considered using examples from across marine, freshwater, forest, grassland, urban and production ecosystems, and with particular reference to the factors controlling the distribution of plants, animals and microbes in Aotearoa New Zealand, and their differences to other countries. There is a particular emphasis on the problems and issues affecting natural systems, and how ecological knowledge can be applied to achieve solutions. We will also recognise taonga species and consider Maori perspectives on cultural management of natural resources. Overall, this course provides a thorough overview for those wanting to compliment other environmental knowledge. It can be combined with BIOL275 Field Ecology to provide a comprehensive platform for those wanting to undertake more advanced ecological study.