BI435 Landscape Ecology

Contents and structure

What is landscape ecology? Historical background. Landscape structure and dynamics. Analysis of spatial structures, e.g., heterogeneity, fragmentation and connectivity. Theory of island biogeography and the concept of metapopulations. Landscape dynamics and population dynamics. Biodiversity in the landscape incl. quantification of this diversity. Specialization in selected themes as cultural landscape management and wildlife biology. How to use landscape ecology in landscape planning and management.

Learning Outcome

Knowledge

• Understand the effect of spatial patterns on ecological processes in animals and plants
• Understand how scale affects ecological patterns and our perception of these
• Understand how natural and anthropogenic disturbance affects landscape pattern and dynamics, with particular emphasize on fragmentation

Skills

• Ability to analyze landscape changes by means of simple metrics
• Ability to present scientific articles and use the knowledge gained from these in landscape planning
• Ability to use GIS for mapping and analysis of landscape changes

Competence

• Apply landscape ecological theory to management and planning of landscapes
• Predict the effect of human activities in the landscape and their effect on ecological processes

Entry requirements

There are no formal prerequisites.

Recommended previous knowledge

It is an advantage with knowledge in ecology and geographic information systems (GIS)

Teaching methods

Lectures, colloquium, presentation of scientific articles, group assignment including use of GIS, excursion.

Compulsory learning activities

Presentation of a scientific article.

Approved project assignment in groups (excursion, GIS-lab, oral presentation and handing in written report)

Assessment

Written exam, 4 hours. Grading A-F.