James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2011

MB5400 - Life History and Evolution of Reef Corals

Credit points: 03
Year: 2011
Student Contribution Band: Band 4
Administered by: School of Marine & Tropical Biology

Available to GDipResMeth, GCertResMeth, GDipSc, MAppSc and students. A quota will apply on the basis of marks in MB5002.

An introduction to the biology of corals and physiological processes involved in building reefs. An overview of the life histories of sessile, modular organisms, incorporating current research findings with respect to reproductive strategies and early life histories, algal symbiosis, and the evolutionary biology of corals. Aspects of the functional morphology and physiology of corals will be explored in relation to major issues impacting coral reefs, particularly bleaching and disease. A 2 day field trip will include an introduction to the taxonomy of reef-building corals and to lab and field research methods for the study of reef corals. The subject complements MB3190. Students will be required to attend lectures and practicals for MB3210.

Learning Outcomes

Graduate Qualities

Assumed
Knowledge:
Students enrolling in this subject should have an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline or have acquired equivalent knowledge through other study. They should have an excellent understanding of biometrics, ecological principles and invertebrate biology, and should have completed BS5001.
Inadmissible
Subject
Combinations:
MB3210 MB3219 MB3330

Availabilities

Townsville, Internal, Study Period 1
Census Date 24-Mar-2011
Coord/Lect: Professor Bette Willis.
Contact hours:
  • 24 hours lectures
  • 36 hours practicals
  • 16 hours fieldwork
Assessment:end of semester exam (40%); presentations (10%); assignments (30%); (20%).

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.