ZL5203:03
The Australian Vertebrate Fauna
Townsville
Prerequisites: Consult HoS
Inadmissable Subject Combination: ZL3203
26 lectures, 24 hours practicals, 40 hours field work. First semester.
Available to students enrolled for the degrees of MSc (including a two semester customised DipResMeth), MAppSc, BAppSc or Graduate Diplomas.
Staff: Dr L Schwarzkopf.
This subject covers the evolution and ecology of terrestrial vertebrates in Australia, including historical biogeography of the fauna; current patterns of diversity; reviews of the reptile, amphibian, bird and mammal radiations. Emphasis is placed on adaptations to the Australian environment. Students will attend lectures, tutorials and practical classes in ZL3203 and will also undertake a project or a major literature review.
Learning Objectives:
- achieve familiarity with diversity of Australian vertebrates;
- acquire skill in techniques required for survey and wildlife research in Australia;
- proficiency in handling and species-identification of vertebrates;
- skill in report-writing for fauna survey.
Assessment by examination and assignments.