ECOL06006 2014 Aquatic Ecology
Full Title
Aquatic Ecology
Transcript Title
Aquatic Ecology
Code
ECOL06006
Attendance
N/A %
Subject Area
ECOL - Ecology
Department
ESCI - Environmental Science
Level
06 - NFQ Level 6
Credit
05 - 05 Credits
Duration
Semester
Fee
€
Start Term
2014 - Full Academic Year 2014-15
End Term
2019 - Full Academic Year 2019-20
Author(s)
Billy Fitzgerald, Declan Feeney, Dolores Byrne, James Moran
Programme Membership
SG_SENER_B07 201300 Bachelor of Science in Energy, Sustainability
Description
This module introduces the fundamental concepts of aquatic ecology through developing an understanding of the abiotic and biotic interactions of aquatic ecosystems. It includes examples from a range of aquatic ecosystems including estuarine and transitional coastal waters, rivers, lakes and wetalnds. Students are introduced to the aquatic environment and life in aquatic ecosystems. The abiotic and biotic component of various aquatic ecosystems is described reinforced by practical elements covering the sampling and classification of aquatic habitats and their communities.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
1.
Describe the fundamental ecological concepts of population demographics, regulation of population size, community structure, community interactions and community development of estuary, river, lake and wetland ecosystems
2.
Demonstrate an understanding of the biotic and abiotic components of a range of aquatic ecosystems
3.
Recognise the dynamics of aquatic ecosystems and explain energy flow and nutrient cycling in a range of aquatic ecosystems
4.
Identify and classify aquatic habitats using both Irish and international habitat classification systems
5.
Collect and interpret sample data from selected aquatic habitats
Module Assessment Strategies
Module will be assessed using a combination of end of semester final exam (40%), continuous assessment and course work (60%). The continuous assessment and course work will involve two in class theory assessments incorporating a series of short and multiple choice questions. Practical work will be assessed via a laboratory and field notebook and two written scientific reports (summative and diagnostic assessment).
Indicative Syllabus
Introduction to Aquatic Ecology (Populations, Communities and Ecosystems)
The aquatic environment
Water as a medium for life
Aquatic life cycles
Organisation of aquatic communities
Aquatic ecosystems (Estuaries, Rivers, Lakes and Wetlands) - abiotic and biotic factors
Aquatic ecosystems (Estuaries, Rivers, Lakes and Wetlands) - community structure and development
Interconnections and links between aquatic systems
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
End of Semester / Year Formal Exam
100 %
Coursework Assessment
| Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Short Answer Questions Two in class assessments (short and multiple choice questions) | Continuous Assessment | UNKNOWN | 20 % | Any | 1,2,3 |
| 2 | Practical Evaluation Lab and field notebook (accurate record of practical work) | Continuous Assessment | UNKNOWN | 15 % | OnGoing | 2,4,5 |
| 3 | Written Report Two written scientific reports on practical work | Continuous Assessment | UNKNOWN | 25 % | OnGoing | 4,5 |
End of Semester / Year Assessment
| Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Final Exam Theory end of semester examination | Final Exam | UNKNOWN | 40 % | End of Term | 1,2,3 |
Full Time Mode Workload
| Type | Location | Description | Hours | Frequency | Avg Workload |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | Lecture Theatre | Theory lectures | 2 | Weekly | 2.00 |
| Laboratory Practical | Science Laboratory | Laboratory practicals and field trips | 2 | Weekly | 2.00 |
| Independent Learning | UNKNOWN | Independent learning | 3 | Weekly | 3.00 |
Total Full Time Average Weekly Learner Contact Time 4.00 Hours
Module Resources
Non ISBN Literary Resources
Dobson, M & Frid, C. 2009. Ecology of Aquatic ecosystems. 2nd ed. Oxford University Press
Other Resources
Additional resources will be made available on IT Sligo learn online system (Moodle). Will contain pdfs of powerpoint lectures and links to additional reading material for selected topics
Additional Information
None