BL4251 Tropical Marine Biology
(BL4251 online module handbook version 97)
image: Tropical Marine Reef System†
The goal of this module is to examine the ecological and biological principles underpinning the major tropical marine ecosystems. The module provides an understanding of the ecological processes that control tropical marine ecosystems, and considers the organisms that are characteristic of each. All the major tropical marine habitats will be considered, but with a focus on coral reef, seagrass and mangrove ecosystems. The module also tackles topical research areas on the subject through student-led seminars, which will vary depending on the latest scientific research and the specific interests of participants. On completion of the module, students will have an understanding of coral reef, mangrove and seagrass ecology. They will understand the biology and physiology of corals and be able to identify the major phyla associated with tropical marine ecosystems. The module will also provide an understanding of the threats to tropical marine habitats, current research trends on tropical marine systems, and the scientific approaches and techniques used tackle scientific questions relating to tropical marine biology.
*Credits: 15*
Semester: 1†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL4251: Assessment
Coursework = 100%*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL4251: Contributing Staff †
BL4251: Learning Outcomes †
Students completing module BL4251 successfully should be able to:
- 6. Understanding of the scientific approaches and techniques used to tackle scientific questions relating to tropical marine biology
- 1. Understanding of mangrove, seagrass and coral reef ecology
- 2. Understanding of the biology and physiology of corals
- 3. Ability to identify the major phyla associated with tropical marine ecosystems
- 4. Understanding of the threats to tropical marine habitats
- 5. Awareness of current research trends on tropical marine systems
- 7. Understanding the principles of social ecological management in marine conservation
BL4251: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
- Fieldwork safety awareness
- Scientific diving
Transferable Skills
- Conducting interviews
- Group discussion - leading
- Group discussion - participating
- Long individual presentation on given topic (>15 min)
- Podcast
- Short group presentation on given topic (up to 15 min)
- Short individual presentation on given topic (up to 15 min)
- Short individual presentation on project idea (up to 15 min)
- "Full" practical write-up (Intro, Methods, Results, Discussion)
- Blog
- Handout (for presentation or poster)
- Project report
- Research proposal
- Response to comments on proposal
- Critically evaluating sources/information
- Finding information on the web
- Finding literature
- Referencing
- Searching databases
- Sourcing figures/tables
- Ethical considerations
- Generating questions
- Peer assessment
- Reflective analysis
- Self assessment
- Critiquing experimental design
- Designing experiments
- Sustainability Related Skills
- Organising group work
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/