Australian Animals

Unit code: RBF2640 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
RBF1310 - Biology 1
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

This unit builds on Biology 1 and explores the diversity of animal life on Australian fauna. The unit examines the science of systematics, including phylogeny cladistic analysis, bauplans, evolution and origin of biodiversity in marine and terrestrial environments and historical and ecological biogeography. The unit also analyse faunal regions and habitat types, and the 'uniqueness' of the Australian fauna.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Analyse and synthesise the characteristic features of major animal phyla;
  2. Contextualise the principles of ecological biogeography in relation to the fauna of Australia;
  3. Evaluate the adaptive features of animals living in either or terrestrial environment and assess the uniqueness of Australian fauna;
  4. Contextualise the evolution and origin of biodiversity in marine and terrestrial environments demonstrating conceptual and technical understandings; and
  5. Articulate clearly, orally, diagrammatically and in writing, complex information on the morphology, life cycles and relationships of various animal families and report on their evolutionary history.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 20%
Report
Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 50%
Presentation (2)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 30%
Tests

Required reading

Required resources will be available in VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Outdoor Education and Environmental Science
SBOE | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years
Undergraduate Certificate in Science and the Environment
NUSE | Undergraduate certificate | Duration: 0.5 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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