Course Description
The emerging field of landscape ecology, emphasizing the study of large land areas and the effects of spatial pattern on ecological processes. Fundamental theories, analysis tools, research methods, and their applications to natural resource management at broad spatial scales.
Athena Title
LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in FORS 8320-8320L or FORS 8330
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Students completing this course will be able to: 1. Explain and critically discuss the basic theoretical principles of landscape ecology. 2. Identify key landscape pattern elements such as patches, matrix, corridors, and networks. 3. Explain and critically discuss the effects of landscape pattern on a variety of ecological responses. 4. Utilize the basic tools of landscape ecology research, including geographic information systems (ARCGIS, ARCVIEW), spatial simulation models (LANDIS, HARVEST), and software for generating landscape metrics (APACK, FRAGSTATS). 5. Apply landscape ecology concepts and tools in the development of natural resource management and conservation plans.
Topical Outline
1. Introduction - what defines landscape ecology? 2. Fundamental theory A. Grain and extent B. Hierarchy C. Incorporation D. Neutral models and percolation theory 3. Ecological implications of landscape pattern A. Basic elements - patches, matrix, corridors, etc. B. Edge versus interior habitat C. Dispersal and connectivity D. Disturbance spread E. Island biogeogrpahy F. Links with aquatic systems 4. Drivers of landscape pattern A. Environmental heterogeneity B. Disturbance history C. Biotic interactions D. Human land use 5. Mapping and measuring landscape pattern A. Remote sensing B. Predictive vegetation mapping C. Landscape metrics D. Spatial statistics E. Effects of changing grain and extent 6. Landscape dynamics - patterns in space and time A. Land use change B. Natural disturbances - fire, wind, disease, etc. C. Timber harvesting 7. Method in landscape ecology A. Types of research questions B. Theoretical, observational, and experimental approaches C. Sources of landscape-scale data D. Applications of analytical techniques F. Development and use of landscape models 8. Applications of landscape ecology A. Comparing forest management scenarios B. Designing ecological reserves C. Developing species conservation plans D. Ecological indicators
Syllabus
Public CV