BI1451, Forest and landscape ecology, 15.0 Hp
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Syllabus

Finalized by: Ordföranden för programnämnden för utbildning inom skog (PN-S), 2023-12-22
Valid from : Autumn semester 2026 (2026-08-31)

Level

First cycle (G1N)

Main field of study

Biology

Biology Area

Ecology

Grading Scale

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

English

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The aim of the course is to give an introduction to basic ecological concepts with particular emphasis on the ecology of forested urban and rural landscapes. Moreover, the students are introduced to ecological applications like functional ecology and ecosystem services, as well as to conservation biology applied to managed and unmanaged forest systems.

After completing the course, the student should be able to

• describe ecological organisational levels and give examples of ecological processes and structures in different scale levels
• discuss different ecological processes that may explain biodiversity of forest ecosystems
• discuss the influence of the surrounding landscape on ecological processes
• explain the ecological background of the most important environmental problems in forested landscapes
• exemplify forest ecosystem functions that are important for the delivery of services for society and environment
• use some common ecological methods and applications
• analyse and discuss ecological literature
• use fundamental ecological vocabulary in oral and written communication.

Content

The course focuses on the fundamental ecological concepts, theoretical principles, and practical applications of modern forest and landscape ecology. The students learn how forest ecosystems are organised and get an overview of their biotic and abiotic components and processes. During the course, students discuss ecological applications and learn how organisms and their environment interact. Furthermore, they explore ecological principles at individual, population, community, ecosystem, and landscape levels. The students learn to understand the effects of natural and human impact on natural forest ecosystem functions. There is also an introduction to the way that ecological knowledge is applied on species conservation in forested landscapes.

Theoretical and practical elements of teaching activities are designed to acquire a deep understanding of the basics in ecology, particularly forest and landscape ecology. Lectures aimed at facilitating students’ comprehension of the course literature, that mainly consists of scientific texts. All modules contain practical elements like excursions and exercises . Students will also participate in group work based on selected literature, which is presented orally as well as in writing. Excursions and oral presentations are compulsory.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Approved group and individual written assignments. Participation in compulsory activities.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre

Supplementary information

Included in program

• Forest and Landscape (BSc)

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Examination 1 - Basic concepts in ecology	3.0	0001
Soil lab including written assignment	3.0	0002
Statistical assignments	1.0	0003
Examination buds	1.0	0004
Citizen science poster presentation	1.0	0005
Examination 2 - Forest and landscape ecology	6.0	0006

The Course Replaces

BI1386

Other Information

The course applies the principles of Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) for the written elements of the course.