James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

MB3200 - Marine Conservation Biology

Subject Description

An ecological approach to human impacts on, and conservation of marine habitats and species, with a tropical emphasis. It will describe the ecological effects of overfishing, nutrient enrichment, habitat loss, pollution and marine introductions. The subject will examine the meanings of the terms rare and endangered for marine organisms and the threat of extinction. Current practices employed in the conservation and management of marine habitats and endangered marine species will be debated. A central focus will be the ecological principles and practice of designing marine reserves, enhancing populations of rare species and restoring damaged biological communities. Tutorials and an on-line chat room will facilitate the debate of all current issues in marine conservation.

Learning Outcomes

• acquire a knowledge of the current understanding of human impacts on and conservation of different types of marine organisms
• acquire an understanding of the basic methodologies of impact assessment and conservation research
• to develop verbal, written and on-line skills in debating marine conservation issues

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (40%) - Individual
• Participation > Class participation - (15%) - Individual
• Written > Project report - (20%) - Individual
• Written > Research report - (25%) - 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 a good understanding of basic biology, ecology, statistics and marine biology.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  MB5004

Availabilities