A similar approach is used in the study of sedimentary shores and estuaries. Distribution, density and biomass of organisms are monitored by field and laboratory studies and the student is introduced to the standard methods of sediment and water analysis. The preliminary studies on plankton completed in Module BS21110 are extended during this course with the emphasis on the study of living plankton. The abundance of meroplankton is investigated and the significance of a pelagic phase in the life-cycle of benthic invertebrates is reviewed. Inshore fisheries and their management are discussed in lectures and demonstrations, and students are introduced to techniques of age-determination from scale readings and ring analysis of shellfish.
Students work in groups for field and follow-up laboratory work.
Learning outcomes On completion of the module students will be able to identify the common organisms of estuaries and coastal waters know how to apply basic methods of collection for intertidal organisms appreciate the factors which affect the distribution of intertidal flora and fauna have experience in the use of advanced identification keys and be able to design simple keys be able to design and undertake sampling programmes appropriate to a range of coastal habitats prepare illustrated, concise reports. A student's guide to the seashore . Cambridge University Press.