Available in 2024
Course code

MARI2300

Units

10 units

Level

2000 level

Course handbook

Description

Marine environments are among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. This course provides a fundamental understanding of how oceans work, and the diversity of marine life that exists within the ocean environment. Students will explore in depth biological diversity of the oceans from microbes to vertebrates. The laboratory and fieldwork component focus on the identification, biology and diversity of Australia's unique marine organisms. The course is delivered via a series of workshops, online content, laboratory and field sessions. These encompass the use of molecular and morphological data to classify the major groups of marine organisms. Course assessment includes a written critical opinion of a current issue in marine biology; application of skills to identify marine organisms in a practical setting; and a written examination.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Callaghan

  • Semester 1 - 2024

Ourimbah

  • Semester 1 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Accurately identify a wide range of marine organisms

2. Describe the role of specific organisms in marine ecosystems

3. Safely apply practical skills in identifying common seaweeds, marine plants and marine animals

4. Critically apply the use of molecular and morphological data in phylogenetics

5. Critically explain current themes in marine biological research


Content

1. The ocean environment

2. Marine habitat types

3. Life in the oceans; marine life

  • Introduction to classification
  • Major groups of marine organisms

4. Biology of marine life

5. Human impact on the marine environment


Requisite

Students must have successfully completed MARI1000 to enrol in this course.


Assumed knowledge

BIOL1002, SCIE1002, and either BIOL1040 and BIOL1070 or BIOL1001


Assessment items

Essay: Essay

Formal Examination: Exam

Tutorial / Laboratory Exercises: Laboratory Exercises

Quiz: Quiz - Class


Contact hours

Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan

Integrated Learning Session-1
  • Online 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Laboratory-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
  • Compulsory Requirement: Students must attend 80% of sessions.

Semester 1 - 2024 - Ourimbah

Integrated Learning Session-1
  • Online 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Laboratory-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
  • Compulsory Requirement: Students must attend 80% of sessions.

Course outline