MB3160:03
Biology of Reef Fishes
Townsville
Prerequisites: Consult Academic Adviser
26 lectures, 24 hours practicals, 32 hours field work. First semester.
A quota of 50 places will apply on the basis of marks in MB2050, MB2060 and MB2070.
Staff: Assoc. Professor D Bellwood.
The biology of coral reef fishes with an emphasis on species from reefs and adjacent waters of the Great Barrier Reef. The subject covers the ecology, morphology, systematics and evolution of coral reef fishes. Practical work includes a laboratory and field program that introduces functional morphology, ecology and field identification of coral reef fishes. This subject will also provide an introduction to laboratory and field research methods.
Learning Objectives:
- be able to identify the major groups of reef fishes;
- have a knowledge of the functional morphology, ecology and evolution of these fishes and will be able to use this knowledge in assessing the role of fishes on coral reefs;
- understand and be familiar with the methods used to study the biology of reef fishes;
- be able to critically evaluate both the methods and outcomes of reef fish research;
- clearly understand the link between teaching and research in the field of coral reef fish biology.
Assessment by final examination (60%); on-course assessment (40%) (lab/field note book, written assignment and seminar).
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