BI1473, Biotope analysis and construction, 15.0 Hp
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Syllabus

Finalized by: PN-LT, 2025-11-14
Valid from : Spring semester 2027 (2027-01-18)

Level

First cycle (G2F)

Main field of study

Biology, Landscape Architecture

Subject

Interdisciplinarity

Biology Area

Ecology

Grading Scale

5 / 4 / 3 / U

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Course language

Swedish

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The aim of the course is to further develop the student’s prior knowledge in soil science, ecology and vegetation construction, and to provide in-depth knowledge of Nordic vegetation types and their ecological conditions and functions, in order to enable the student to create desired biotopes either from scratch or within restoration projects.

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

Knowledge and understanding

• Identity the most common vegetation types in Sweden and explain their soil, water and climatic conditions.
• Explain the fundamental principles of how new biotopes can be created, based on knowledge of naturally occurring vegetation types.

Skills and abilities

• Propose a biotope that is well suited to a site based on analysis of the surrounding area and limiting factors, taking ecological considerations into account.
• Apply the fundamentals of creating new biotopes with a focus on soil, plants and water.
• With guidance, produce drawings and technical specifications for the construction of new biotopes.

Judgement and Approach

• Critically reflect on priorities and conflict of interest when creating a biotope in relation to human needs as well as the needs of other animals and organisms.
• Reflect on how a Landscape Engineer can enhance conditions for ecosystem services and biodiversity through various projects, thereby contributing to the development of more sustainable cities.

Content

In this course, the student further develops their knowledge of ecology, soil science, and vegetation construction, gaining the ability to identify, analyse, and design vegetation types and biotopes.

The student practise assessing site conditions for establishing new vegetation and subsequently propose biotope types for new developments that contribute to a functional green structure. This task also allows the student to develop skills in designing and producing plans and specifications for new biotopes.

The course combines theory, field excursions, practical exercises, and project work. Several components of the course are mandatory, including an extended study trip with an overnight stay.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Approved written or oral examinations and exercises, together with active participation in all mandatory activities.

•  If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.
• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.
• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.
• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Ecology

Supplementary information

Included in program

• Landscape Engineer Programme - Uppsala
• Landscape Engineer Programme - Alnarp

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Vegetation types and soil ecology	6.0	0001
Naturalistic plantings	4.5	0002
Biotope creation	4.5	0003

The Course Replaces

BI1455

Other Information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.
• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.