Overview

The module will concentrate on the behavioural and physiological strategies shown by animals to either avoid or survive extreme environments. Consideration will be given to those organisms that are able to survive extremes of environmental temperature and dehydration stress as well as reductions in oxygen levels. The module will describe ways in which animals avoid the extremes of environmental variation by showing rhythmic behaviour patterns, either on a daily, annual, or lunar basis. Avoidance strategies, such as torpor, hibernation and migration will also be covered. Case studies will be used throughout and include both invertebrate and vertebrate examples from a diversity of habitats.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -(D) The students should be able to express a basic factual knowledge of at least some part of the core material presented in the module, and be able to appreciate how the physiology of an organism fits it for its environment.

-good -(B) The student should be able to express a thorough factual knowledge of much of the core material presented in the module, and have a competent and detailed ability to critically evaluate the principles and processes governing the interactions of organisms and their environment. Some evidence of further reading and ability to integrate material from the full range of the lecture content.

-excellent -(A) The student should demonstrate comprehensive factual knowledge, critical understanding of theory, evidence of extra reading of primary literature and the ability to integrate this extra knowledge in a relevant manner.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate an ability to analyse, synthesise and summarise information critically (Benchmark 3.5).

• Demonstrate an appreciation of the complexity and diversity of life processes through the study of organisms, their molecular, cellular and physiological processes (Benchmark 3.3).

• Develop practical skills, and interpersonal and teamwork skills by working jointly with other students to undertake a short practical project. (Benchmarks 3.4, 3.7 & 3.8).

• Develop the skills necessary for developing the skills necessary for self-managed and lifelong learning (Benchmark 3.9).

• Engagement with the essential facts, major concepts, principles and theories associated with the adaptations shown by animals to extreme environments (Benchmark 3.1).