An Introduction to Ecology

An Introduction to Ecology

Friday 3rd February 2023 – Friday 17th February 2023 

10am – 12 noon | William Elder Building, TD15 1JT

This is a series of three talks by Rachel Sutherland SSBA.

In a world of flora and fauna, how do we identify what is going on and why? How have habitats come to be? What mechanisms are in place to ensure the survival of a food chain or web? These and other questions will be answered in an effort to understand our environment.

Week 1- Introduces key words, terms and concepts in ecology, what is ecology and when did it become a science as we know it. Soils, plant communities, pioneer species, climax species, succession and arrested ecosystems will be discussed.

Week 2- Introduces aquatic ecosystems, both fresh and salty. Riverine and dune habitats. Keystones species, food chains and webs will be illustrated. The reference point is the River Tweed from source to sea and the land through which it flows.

Week 3- In conclusion, we will be able to build up a picture of the forces at work in any area of land that we care to study. By using common methods of data collection (the quadrat and line transect), the results of this ‘random sampling’ will show us the levels of biodiversity, and the subsequent health or lack of, of the area under study. Discussion of the creation and conservation of habitats will round off the event and perhaps lead to further enquiry in the local area.

No previous knowledge is assumed and all are welcome. Tea and coffee will be served. There is no need to print out and bring your ticket, as we will have a record of your booking.