Marine ecology includes patterns and processes in the ecology of benthic and pelagic plants and animals, including how environmental factors and physiology influence species distribution and abundance.

Lectures cover:

• measuring biodiversity at population (including molecular), species and ecosystem levels

• ecology of phytoplankton and seaweeds including factors that influence their growth and productivity

• plant-herbivore interactions and chemical ecology

• invertebrate reproduction

• case studies related to research at the University (e.g. on cetaceans).
   

Practical work includes ecological data analysis in the computer lab, an ecological field survey and a laboratory study of nutrient uptake in seaweeds.

The course emphasises multi-disciplinary science that integrates across different empirical and theoretical approaches to better understand the functioning of soft-sediment ecosystems. Covering fundamental ecological principles of soft-sediment systems through to the impacts associated with human activities.

There will be practical exercises in experimental field ecology that will introduce students to key research methods.

This course forms an introduction to the physical and biological structure of the oceans, sea floor, coastlines and the biological communities that inhabit them. Subject matter includes an overview of the nature and scope of marine science globally and within the New Zealand and Auckland contexts. A wide range of marine science issues are covered, with an emphasis on multidisciplinary examples.

This course considers fundamental processes in the marine environment with an emphasis on interdisciplinary linkages in the functioning of marine ecosystems. Topics include the relationship between light and photosynthetic life in the sea, the role of fluid dynamics in the lives of marine animals and the relationships between physical and biological processes that control coral reef formation.

There is a two-day field trip at the Leigh Marine Laboratory. Included are practical components relating to light quantity and quality and their effects on depth distribution of seaweeds and the role of fluid dynamics in the function and behaviour of marine animals. The practical component includes time spent on the research vessel, RV Haware.

A review of current science related to MPA, including biogeographical and ecological principles in the design of marine reserve networks, MPA as controls in ecosystem research, conservation of biological diversity, interaction with fisheries, and case studies and experiences involving guest lecturers.

Practicals may include visits to Goat Island marine reserve and other locations, and analysis and interpretation of data related to MPA.