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701-0243-AAL 3 Credits MSC D-USYS
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Biology III: Essentials of Ecology

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Jake Alexander
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement. Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:34:02

Abstract

This course is for students needing further ecological background. Topics covered include population growth, species interactions, the movement of energy and nutrients through ecosystems, and ecological responses to environmental change will be covered. Applications of ecological concepts to conservation and restoration will also be covered.

Objective

Students will understand how ecological processes operate in natural communities. They will appreciate how mathematical theory, field experimentation, and observational studies combine to generate a predictive science of ecological processes. Upon completing the course, students will be able to: - Understand models of population growth, and the processes they represent - Gain knowledge of the factors determining the outcome of species interactions (e.g. competition, predation, mutualism), and their implications for populations and communities. - Understand how diversity is maintained and why it varies across environmental and disturbance gradients, and during succession - Appreciate how energy and nutrients cycle throughout ecosystems . - Understand how anthropogenic change influences populations, communities and ecosystems - Appreciate how ecological principles underlie restoration and conservation efforts.

Content

Readings from a text book will focus on understanding central processes in ecology.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Semesterly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
revision course / private study Biology III: Essentials of Ecology
Self-study course. No presence required. Please contact Prof. Jake Alexander for further information.
No time listed 90 h semesterly

Offered In