James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2000

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ZL3203:03

The Australian Vertebrate Fauna

Townsville

Prerequisites: (ZL2006 or ZL2101 or ZL2103) (MB2060 or ZL2007 or ZL2102)
Inadmissable Subject Combination: ZL5203

26 lectures, 24 hours practicals, 40 hours field work. First semester.

Staff: Dr L Schwarzkopf.

The biogeography, evolution and contemporary diversity of terrestrial vertebrates and marine reptiles and mammals in Australia.

Topics include geological and climate history of Australia; biogeographic regions of Australia, origins and evolution of the vertebrate fauna; behaviour, breeding and life histories of vertebrates in relation to the Australian environment.

Learning Objectives:

  1. achieve familiarity with diversity of Australian vertebrates;
  2. acquire skill in techniques required for survey and wildlife research in Australia;
  3. proficiency in handling and species identification of vertebrates;
  4. skill in report writing for fauna survey.

Assessment by a three-hour examination (50%); report on practicals/field trip (25%); essay (25%).


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