DoctorJemina Stuart-Smith

In Marine Ecology you will learn about the fundamental features and processes of a variety of marine systems. These include the influence of physical processes (at a range of scales) on communities and productivity; ecology of feeding and predator–prey interactions of plankton and fishes; the dynamics of estuaries; the ecology of flow; structuring forces of benthic communities and macroalgal habitats; biogeography of the sea; invasions by introduced species; and marine conservation. The major practical component is a high-level research project conducted during a multi-day field trip to Maria Island off the east coast of Tasmania (which incurs an extra charge). Weekly practical sessions then involve using the data collected by each group during the field trip in preparation for the seminar and major report. You would find Quantitative Methods, Antarctic Ecology, Aquatic Botany and Introduction to Oceanography particularly useful additional units. The course is coordinated by A/Prof Rick Stuart-Smith (Institute of Marine and Antarctic Studies, Taroona Building).

Tyson Jack Bessell

This unit introduces systematic methods of field and laboratory-based data collection, analysis, and reporting for practical applications in marine conservation. Lectures outline the quantitative nature of marine conservation research, the value of robust sampling strategies and experimental methods, assessment of cumulative historic and contemporary impacts (human development, invasive species, habitat degradation, climate change) on biodiversity loss in marine ecosystems, and design and implementation of practical management solutions. Management and conservation principles are considered against a framework of environmental planning policy and legislation intended to manage and restore biodiversity, with highlight on threatened species recovery. Practical work will complement methods introduced in lectures and involve use of software in addition to field data collection at local sites, as well as collation of existing datasets and information in working towards feasible solutions for marine conservation challenges. Workshops will be used to provide specialised expertise in marine wildlife conservation techniques. You'll gain the skills needed to implement habitat and species restoration strategies involving multidisciplinary methods, and other relevant skills to research and manage threatened species and ecological communities, with particular focus understanding and minimising human impacts in the marine realm.