In this module we will explore a variety of temperate terrestrial, freshwater and marine habitats. We will begin by looking at the changes to the British countryside since the last Ice Age, and the various ways in which habitats/biotopes/communities can be recognised and classified. Aspects of landscape ecology – e.g. habitat connectivity, fragmentation, minimum viable area and metapopulations – will also be covered.

This module provides an important underpinning for the Level 6 module ‘Habitat Management’.

Habitats studied will include:
ponds, lakes, rivers and associated wetland habitats; coastal (rocky shores, estuaries etc.) and marine; temperate woodlands, grasslands, heathlands, agricultural land, and urban areas; soil ecology. You will study the biology of the dominant life forms in selected habitats (e.g. grasses, trees, plankton, freshwater invertebrates, soil organisms).

The practical component of the module will give you experience of measuring key abiotic factors, and identifying the dominant life forms as an intrinsic part of carrying out a range of standard survey techniques (e.g. River Corridor Survey, NVC, PSYM, RICT). Consideration and implementation of appropriate biosecurity measures when surveying habitats.

25% - Plant identification practical test (2 hours). To assess learning outcomes 2 and 3
25% - Invertebrate identification practical test (2 hours). To assess learning outcome 3

50% - 90-minute class test. To assess learning outcome 1. This will be the FINAL ASSESSMENT

The contact time is 4 hours per week over 20 weeks (= 80 hours). The 4 hours would typically consist of a 1-hour lecture and a 3-hour practical, although some of the field-based activities may utilise the full 4 hours. The practical element involves a mixture of lab- and field-based investigations.

The 220 hours of independent study will involve working on tasks prior to and after the class (60 hours) sessions; practising your identification skills (120 hours), and preparing for the class test (40 hours).

Dobson, M. & Frid, C. (2008) Ecology of Aquatic Systems. 2nd Edition. OUP

Rackham, O. (2000) The History of the Countryside. W&N.

Rodwell, J.S. (2006) National Vegetation Classification Users’ Handbook. JNCC http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/pdf/pub06_NVCusershandbook2006.pdf

Transport to sites. Appropriate sampling equipment and identification guides.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the ecological characteristics and processes of terrestrial and aquatic habitats
Knowledge and Understanding

2. Identify wide-ranging and common plant species in the field, without recourse to identification guides Reflection
Problem Solving

3. Demonstrate the ability to utilise professional identification keys in order to identify invertebrates and plants to species level
Reflection
Problem Solving