Overview

Introduction to freshwater ecosystems. Habitat type: Plants & algae, physical & chemical characteristics, geomorphology/hydrology & structure of freshwater ecosystems. Classification of lakes, rivers & wetlands. Freshwater communities & relationships Human impacts on freshwaters & approaches to conservation & restoration. Fish ecology, life assessment and management & fisheries economics. Ecosystem services and their management.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Awareness of the fundamentals underlying the science as outlined in learning outcomes 1-7, based on lecture material and practical sessions, but with limited or absent analytical ability.Equivalent category CNS general marking criteria:D- (42%) to D+ (48%)

-good -A good grasp of the fundamentals and demonstration of critical thought with evidence of additional reading. An ability to present a coherent argument with clarity. A good appreciation of the main approaches which might be employed in studying fresh water ecosystems and the ability to critically assess their suitability in a given situation.Equivalent category CNS general marking criteria:B- (62%) to B+ (68%)

-excellent -An excellent grasp of the fundamentals of the science (as in learning outcomes 1-7) and demonstration of the ability to analyse, critically assess and clearly construct a reasoned argument based on information from a variety of sources.Equivalent category CNS general marking criteria:A- (74%) to A* (95%)

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge of actual and potential human impacts on freshwaters and their Ecosystem Goods & Services (EG&S), but understand the available options for conservation and management of fresh water ecosystems and the context in which any decisions must be made.

• Demonstrate the ability to think critically and apply a problem-solving approach (identifying hypotheses, considering options, drawing conclusions from data and considering implications of these conclusions) when presented with a hypothetical or real scenario based on a freshwater ecosystem.

• Demonstrate the skills necessary for self-managed and lifelong learning (undertaking directed reading, time management, working to a deadline)

• Describe the main processes and mechanisms which lead to the formation of fresh water ecosystems.

• Describe the techniques which might be involved in the study of aquatic ecosystems, and demonstrate an appreciation of the complexities of conducting field and laboratory work, with due consideration to logistical planning, time management, team work, interpersonal skills, and safety considerations.

• Distinguish between different freshwater systems and describe their main features.

• Understand the relationships between chemical, physical and biological components of these systems.