BIOL 3021 - Community and Ecosystem Ecology

Course Description

This course is a survey of the theoretical development of community and ecosystem ecology as a science. Students examine the major influences on the organization and development of ecological communities, including physical constraints and processes, biological interactions within and among species, and the complex interaction of all these factors at varied spatial and temporal scales. Students also examine the classification, diversity and conservation of ecological communities. The course provides extensive experience in the practice of ecology through a field research project.

Learning outcomes

• Discuss the major ecological factors that affect the distribution and abundance of organisms and how the interaction of physical and biotic factors organizes and structures ecological communities.
• Evaluate how specific research studies contribute to larger ecological theory.
• Recognize the influences of ecological processes on different temporal and spatial scales.
• Integrate independent observations with existing ecology theory.
• Critically evaluate the peer-reviewed ecological literature and understand the process of peer review.
• Develop and evaluate a testable ecological hypothesis from field observations.
• Design and implement an observational study using established principles of experimental and sampling design.
• Communicate ecological knowledge and results effectively, using both written text and tables and/or figures.
• Appreciate the process of ecological enquiry, including its limitations and opportunities.
• Reflect on how the science of ecology affects your understanding of the natural world.

Course topics

• Module 1: Course Introduction
• Module 2: Ecology as Science
• Module 3: Environmental Influences
• Module 4: Biomes and Ecozones
• Module 5: Species Interactions I
• Module 6: Species Interactions II
• Module 7: Community Structure
• Module 8: Disturbance and Succession
• Module 9: Biogeography and Biodiversity
• Module 10: Ecological Energetics  
• Module 11: Conservation and Landscape Ecology
• Module 12: Global and Canadian Ecology

Required text and materials

Students are responsible for purchasing the required materials on their own:

• Bowman, W. D., & Hacker, S. D. (2023). Ecology (6th ed.). Oxford University Press. 
  Type: E-Textbook. ISBN: 978019761408 / 9780197614082

Note: This item can be purchased directly from Campus eBookstore via Wolfie's Campus Store.

Assessments

To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course and 50% or higher on the mandatory Final Project.

Recommended requisite(s)

6 credits of introductory Biology

Exclusions

• BIOL 3020
• BIOL 2170