This subject provides a basic understanding of the diversity of plants and their communities and the origins of this diversity with special emphasis on selected Australian plant groups. It provides an introduction to the diversity and ecology of tropical rainforests and savannas; adaptation of plants to their environment; speciation processes that result from these adaptations; and pollination biology and reproductive strategies. Field and practical experience will include tropical rainforest and savanna habitats. Skills developed in this subject include the description and identification of plants and plant communities and will provide a sound basis for describing and investigating ecological processes.