This module is intended to introduce you to the biology and ecology of tropical coral reef systems. Coral reefs often dominate shallow inshore waters and are the most diverse of all marine habitats. Tropical reef systems also support the livelihoods of many millions of people. Reef systems are therefore exceptionally important in terms of global biodiversity and food and economic security. Coral reefs are increasingly over exploited and are also at risk from environmental change. Coral reefs do not exist in isolation and are connected to other tropical biomes. These biomes include sea grass beds and mangrove systems. Knowledge concerning the nature of this connection is key to understanding the ecological functioning of coral reef systems. Coral reefs are ecologically complex systems and provide the perfect case study to discuss ecological theory and the management of ecological systems. This module will provide you with knowledge of the biology of coral reef systems, the landscape ecology of tropical coastal marine systems, the importance of and threats to these systems and options for management.
Learning outcomes:
To pass this module students will need to be able to:
1. demonstrate knowledge of the biology of tropical reef forming corals
2. describe the ecological and socio-economic importance of tropical coral reefs
3. discuss the diversity of coral reef communities over local and regional scales
4. demonstrate knowledge of coral reef assessment and monitoring techniques
5. discuss major coral reef conservation and management strategies
6. demonstrate an ability to physiological assessment of reef building corals and in analysing and interpreting data
7. show competence in gathering scientific information, particularly from the web, in reading and analysis of simple scientific reviews and data within them, and in communication skill
- Module Supervisor: Leanne Hepburn