This option gives an in-depth introduction to tropical rainforest ecosystems. The first part of the course will cover the rainforest environment, how it evolved and how it functions. Later parts discuss how organisms survive on the backdrop of this environment. Important groups of organisms will be covered in depth with particular emphasis on recent research. 

There is normally 3 hours of teaching on Fridays. 

BIOL4127 Tropical Rainforest Ecology option

The course will be assessed by a 2-hour examination (75%) and in-course assessment consisting of a mini project report in the form of an individual poster (25%). 

This course aims to provide an in-depth study of tropical rainforest ecosystems, covering their origins, evolution, structure and function. Important groups of organisms will be covered in depth with particular emphasis on recent research.

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

Critically evaluate and discuss current topics and trends in tropical rainforest ecology;

Evaluate findings responsible for ecosystem changes in tropical rainforest environments;

Using examples critique complex relationships that exist in tropical rainforest environments;

Design inclusive scientific communications; in an accessible format, for a scientific audience.