? Credit Points : 10  ? SCQF Level : 10  ? Acronym : BIO-4-Zobiodiv

This module seeks to uncover the scientific foundation of the study of biodiversity: what is it and what role does it play in ecological processes and ecosystem function? The existing science of biodiversity is overwhelmingly concerned with macroscopic as opposed to microscopic animals and plants. We will investigate whether this is appropriate. Typical units of biodiversity studies are species. We will explore both higher (ecosystem) and lower (genetic)levels of of organisation. The material covered consists of both the most contemporary research as well as areas of classical ecology that have a renewed relevance.

? Pre-requisites : Permission of the Curriculum Approval Officer. Normally Population & Community Ecology 3 is required.

Home subject area

Zoology, (School of Biological Sciences, Schedule K)

Other subject areas

Environmental Courses, (School of GeoSciences, Schedule N)

? Normal year taken : 4th year

? Delivery Period : Semester 1 (Blocks 1-2)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) 45 minutes per week for 11 weeks

First Class Information

Date Start End Room Area Additional Information 24/09/2007 14:00 16:30 Room 1.0114, Ashworth Labs KB Honours Room 2

All of the following classes

Type Day Start End Area Lecture Monday 14:00 17:00 KB

Understanding of course content and ability to apply this to novel problems in biology.

2 hours written exam

Exam times

Diet Diet Month Paper Code Paper Name Length 1ST December 1 - 2 hour(s)

The Course Secretary should be the first point of contact for all enquiries.

Course Secretary

Mrs Pat Dougall
Tel : (0131 6)50 5464
Email : pat.dougall@ed.ac.uk

Course Organiser

Dr Sean Nee
Tel : (0131 6)50 7335
Email : Sean.Nee@ed.ac.uk

School Website : http://www.biology.ed.ac.uk/

College Website : http://www.scieng.ed.ac.uk/