This course examines the evolution, ecology and diversity of the marine environment. It looks at the origin of life in the sea and the evolutionary patterns suggested by marine fossil beds. It then covers the major marine environments such as coral reefs, the deep sea floor, hydrothermal vents, the open ocean and the intertidal zones. The focus is on the diversity of plants and animals in each environment and the adaptations they have to vastly different conditions. The course also includes an introduction to oceanography: tides, water circulation, geography, physical gradients and properties of water that influence living conditions throughout the marine environment.

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but will be assessed separately.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Describe the variety of marine organisms and explain their evolution
2. Explain the impact of physical processes on marine habitats
3. Design and evaluate research methodology in the context of marine biology
4. Investigate marine biology in laboratory and field conditions, analyse and interpret the collected data, and communicate the implications to different audiences as appropriate
5. Construct relationships between the form and function of marine organisms
6. Create new ideas about marine conservation and its implications

Assessment will be based on:

• Fieldtrip report (approximately 10%; LO 3, 4, 5)
• Essay (approximately 40%; LO 1, 2, 3, 6)
• Mid term test (approximately 25%; LO 1, 2, 3, 5)
• Final exam (approximately 25%; LO 1, 2, 3, 5)

Bachelor of Science or equivalent with at least two biology courses completed.