Course Contents

Introduction; Concept of applied ecology, Background and scope, Principles of applied ecology, Basic concepts in applied ecology, Carbon-energy balance and climate change; solar radiation and primary production, Energy resources for now and for future, Carbon dioxide and global climate change, Effect of carbon dioxide concentration on photosynthesis, Ecological concepts in food production; Efficient use of resources in farming system, cutting of forests for agricultural purposes, sustainable agricultural practices, Sustainable livestock management practices, Aquaculture practices, Restoration ecology; Background: introduction and philosophy, rationale for restoration Basic concepts about pollutant transfer in plant and animals, Species response to pollutants, Using microcosm and mesocosms to study effects of pollutants on communities, Pest and Pest control, Phytoremediation and bioremediation, Conservation and management of wild species; Coexistence of species, Species-area relationship, Influence of vegetation structure on animal diversity, interaction between consumers and effect of species abundance, Human influence on biodiversity extinction, Biodiversity conservation; aim and approach. PRACTICALS 1. Measurement of plant biomass and net primary productivity 2. To study and compare the wild and captive behavior of various animals and designing their captive habitat 3. To study the interspecific and intraspecific competition in different areas of Pakistan 4. To study the temperature effects on a species distribution in different areas of Pakistan 5. Geotaging of Plant species with GPS 6. To study sampling techniques for monitoring of fish and water quality 7. To study and compare food chain of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in Pakistan 8. To study management of mangrove forest in Pakistan 9. To study various techniques used in organic farming 10. To study different practices for restoration of ecosystem

Course Learning Outcomes

The course aims to provide knowledge, skill and understanding of applied aspects of ecosystem and its relationships. It will train students in: 1. Applied aspects of ecology 2. Relationship of carbon with climate change 3. New farming system in food production and conservation and management of wild species