BL6012 Marine Megafauna

The module will be concerned with the life histories, biogeography, spatial ecology, physiology and foraging of the various megafaunal groups. Surveying, population trends and problems of conservation will be highlighted. Interactions of these charismatic groups with fisheries, aquaculture, climate change and pollution by light, sound including recreational disturbance. On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

1. Recall basic features of megafaunal life histories
2. Distinguish problems of population estimation amongst the megafaunal groups
3. Compare vulnerabilities of megafaunal species to anthropogenic influences
4. Integrate directed reading with lecture information and material demonstrated in practical sessions