James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

BZ5620 - Tropical Flora of Australia

Available to students admitted to the Graduate Diploma of Research Methods, Master of Applied Science, Graduate Diploma of Science, Graduate Certificate of Science, Graduate Certificate of Development Practice, Graduate Diploma of Development Practice, Master of Development Practice, Master of Science or Master of Science (Professional).

Subject Description

This field-based subject is an advanced treatment of the Australian flora with an emphasis on understanding the distribution and diversity of the tropical flora. Students will be introduced to sources of information on the Australian Flora, principles of plant identification, and theoretical and practical issues in plant taxonomy and conservation.

Learning Outcomes

• develop an appreciation and understanding of the underlying factors involved in the conservation and management of tropical floras
• gain an understanding of the origins and development of the Australia flora
• gain experience in identifying plants
• undertake a mini-research project, introducing the scope and form of higher research degrees (honours and masters) available in the school

Subject Assessment

• Oral > Presentation 1 - (10%) - Individual
• Written > Reflection/reflective task 1 - (15%) - Individual
• digital plant collection - (60%) - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Practical assessment/practical skills demonstration - (15%) - Individual

Note that 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.

Assumed Knowledge:  Students enrolling in this subject should have an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. biology or environmental science) or have acquired equivalent knowledge through other study. They should have an excellent understanding of biology, basic chemistry, and a good knowledge of concepts and techniques used in the description and identification of plants and plant communities.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  BT3400 BT5400 BZ3620

Availabilities