Rocky Shore Ecology and Sampling Techniques

Overview

This marine biology course focuses on the effect of tides and wave action on rocky shore ecology. Students will learn about the unique biology and ecology of organisms in this extreme and unique environment. Leaners will carry out independent ecological investigations of rocky shores, using sampling strategies and quadrat techniques and be able to interpret the results of these investigations.

Programme

Learners will cover the following topics:

• Zonation and community composition:
  Evaluate the range of biotic and abiotic factors on zonation and community composition for a range of species.
• The effects of tidal movements on rocky shores:
  Mechanism of tidal movement.
• The influence of tides on the environmental gradients of rocky shores.
  Anatomical and physiological adaptations in response to changes in the environmental factors across different rocky shore habitats.
• Marine Animals
  Identification of indicator species at varying intertidal zones and their input into rocky shore ecosystem functionality.
• Seaweed Identification
  Seaweed species at low, mid and high shore zones and their importance on ecosystem success
• Recording & reporting data:
  Transect / Quadrat survey techniques
• Plotting survey data in appropriate forms (tables and graphs).
  Analysing data from tables and graphs to infer community structure
• Risk assessments and health and safety in the field.
  How to compile an effective risk assessment before conducting a rocky shore survey
• Ecological investigation of rocky shore
  Analyse potential climate change impacts on the rocky shore

Learning Outcomes

• Understand tidal movements and their effects on rocky shores, including zonation and community composition.
• Be able to carry out ecological investigations of rocky shore safely using the correct sampling strategies.
• Know how to record, analyse and interpret the results of a rocky shore survey.

Assessments

• Portfolio - 75%
• Scientific Poster - 25%

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements. 

What Do I Need?

• Internet access.
• Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also benefit.
• Use of the Chrome web browser where possible.