Overview

This module starts with an introduction to the fundamental principles of biodiversity and taxonomy, as a basis for the remainder of the syllabus. Thereafter, the major groups of marine organisms will be considered, from microbes and algae to invertebrate and vertebrate animals. General taxonomy, body form, physiology and life history will be studied to give an appreciation of the multiple aspects of marine biodiversity.

Major groups of marine organisms will be reviewed, from microbes and algae to invertebrate and vertebrate animals. General taxonomy, body form, physiology and life history will be studied to give an appreciation of the multiple aspects of marine biodiversity.

Assessment Strategy

Excellent: A- to A+: Comprehensive factual knowledge about diversity of marine organisms with highly accurate knowledge about function of evolutionary adaptations seen in different groups and classification criteria. Excellent ability to compare taxa and show some reasoning when considering similarities and differences between these.

Good: B- to B+: Good factual knowledge about diversity of marine organisms with demonstrable accurate knowledge about function of evolutionary adaptations seen in different groups and classification criteria. A student acheiving 2:1 grades in the module overall will have a good ability to compare taxa and show some reasoning when considering similarities and differences between these.

Adequate: C- to C+: Reasonable factual knowledge about diversity of marine organisms with some knowledge about function of evolutionary adaptations seen in different groups and awareness of classification criteria. A student acheiving 2:2 grades in the module overall will have a reasonable ability to compare taxa.

Threshold: D- to D+: Adequate factual knowledge about diversity of marine organisms with some basic knowledge about function of evolutionary adaptations seen in different groups. Some basic comprehension of reasons for comparative differences seen between taxa.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply basic taxonomy of marine organisms to identify key differences between and within major groups.

• Explain the basic physiological principles applicable to marine organisms.

• Identify the basic functional morphologies of marine organisms.