James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

BZ5745 - Tropical Entomology

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

Subject Description

This subject covers the phylogeny, classification and functional morphology of terrestrial arthropods, especially insects. Methodological skills needed in the evaluation of insect biodiversity will be taught. Students will be expected to develop an area of particular interest to them via a project and a major literature review. Attendance at BZ3745 lectures is required.

Learning Outcomes

• apply a variety of techniques for collecting terrestrial arthropods
• compare and contrast the diversity and evolutionary relationships of different terrestrial arthropods
• describe some of the key interactions between terrestrial arthropods, their environment, and humans
• analyze and evaluate insect ecology primary literature
• create a well-curated terrestrial arthropod collection with correctly identified specimens across multiple orders
• evaluate the accuracy of digital databases for cataloguing biodiversity

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (College administered) - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Research report - (15%) - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Practical assessment/practical skills demonstration - (45%) - 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 or have acquired equivalent knowledge through other study. They should have an excellent level of understanding of zoological processes and taxonomy and data analysis and experimental design (SC5202 or equivalent).

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  BZ3745 ZL3501 ZL5501

Availabilities