Unit Catalogue

This unit will examine the physiological and behavioural responses of organisms to their environments from the perspective of individuals, populations and communities. This unit provides vital background on animal and plant responses to changing environments, including global warming, for students interested in global change biology, land management and wildlife conservation, and is suitable for any student interested in environmental science and management. We expect students to interpret and analyse data critically, draw conclusions and fit them into their prior knowledge, and communicate these ideas with biologists and non-biologists. Tutorials and web discussion groups maximise opportunities for the students to discuss concepts with academic staff. The unit is taught by several staff members who are active researchers in plant and animal physiological and behavioural ecology in tropical and desert environments. Discussions about the topic will include current research and the implications of the concepts for research and environmental management in the Northern Territory and south east Asia.