Biodiversity & Ecology (C1811)

15 credits, Level 4

Spring teaching

On this module, you’ll be introduced to biodiversity and ecology. You’ll develop core principles in phylogeny, with examples from taxonomic groups of organisms to illustrate the scientific classification of living organisms.

Fundamental aspects of ecology that will be covered include:

• population ecology (population growth and regulation and species interactions, e.g. competition, predation and mutualisms)
• community ecology (trophic structures and food webs and ecosystem services)
• macro-ecology (local and global patterns of biodiversity, factors controlling species distribution, abundance and biogeography).

Laboratory practicals will help you develop your identification skills. You’ll also apply identification skills and data collection experiences in field practicals.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses:

• Biology BSc
• Biology MSci
• Ecology and Conservation BSc
• Ecology and Conservation MSci
• Genetics BSc
• Genetics MSci
• Geography BSc
• Zoology BSc
• Zoology MSci