Marine Ecology Module Overview

Overview

  • Module: OSX-2009 - Marine Ecology

  • Introductory topics include staff introductions, module overview, assessment logistics, and reading requirements.

Staff Introductions

  • Dr. Mollie Duggan-Edwards

    • Welsh medium lecturer focusing on saltmarsh ecology.

  • Dr. Katie Dubois

    • Marine ecologist specializing in seagrass, algal communities, and ocean impacts.

Reasons to Study Marine Ecology

  • Passion for the ocean and nature.

  • Importance of conservation and sustainability.

  • Career and adventure opportunities.

  • Environmental relevance and societal importance.

Module Goals

  • Aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal #14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans.

  • Focus on marine pollution, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable fishing.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand physical/biological drivers of marine ecosystems.

  • Apply ecological theory to marine communities.

  • Gain skills in sampling techniques and data analysis.

Main Topics Covered

  • Predator-prey dynamics

  • Marine disease ecology

  • Trophic cascades

  • Invasive species ecology

  • Ecological theories (e.g., intermediate disturbance hypothesis)

Module Delivery

  • Combination of lectures, practical sessions, fieldwork, and workshops.

  • Expectation of >150 hours of additional reading.

Assessments

  • Rocky Shore Report: 50% of the module mark, focuses on rocky shore ecology.

  • Saltmarsh Poster: 50% of the module mark, emphasizes marine community structure and data analysis.