This course applies statistical methods to biological information. It ideals with sampling techniques, data presentation, analysis and interpretation. Types of distribution (e.g. normal, binomial, Poisson) are also discussed. Analytical procedures including t-test, X2, F-ratio, correlation and regression will be used to analyse biological data. Students will be taken through some basic experimental designs as well (e.g. CRD, RCD, factorilal design).
The course exposes students to the processes involved in the Scientific Method of investigation. There will be exercise in observational skills, asking questions, formulating hypotheses, experimental designs, biological techniques, data acquisition, analysis and scientific presentation. Students will be required to do a literature review on specific topics presentation to seminars.
Students are introduced to the structure, formation and processes of estuaries and lagoons. The physical, chemical and biotic aspects of these brackishwater bodies are discussed. The course examines the role of estuaries and lagoons in fisheries. Also to be studied are the biology of selected (edible) brackishwater organisms as well as ecology of mangrove ecosystems.
This course examines the ecological processes and communities on seashores. The different types of seashores will be discussed in terms of their general characteristics; and distribution on the coast of Ghana. Emphasis will be placed on adaptations as well as the physical, chemical and biological factors that influence distribution of organisms on the seashore. Plant and animal communities on sandy and rocky beaches will be examined. Practical activities will include sampling, identification and population analysis of the flora and fauna of selected beaches.
This course introduces students to the basic concepts and practices of Coastal Zone Management (ICZM). The topics covered include: introduction to ICZM; coastal ecosystems (e.g., mangrove swamps, coral reefs, sea grass beds, estuaries, lagoons, sandy & rocky shores, sand dunes and coastal savannah); natural coastal processes (e.g. geological processes, tides, waves tsunamis, currents, runoffs/floods, hurricanes and sediment transport/longshore drifts); and uses and opportunities of the coastal zone. Traditional methods of management as well as sector versus integrated approaches for managing the coastal zone are discussed.
This course focuses on terrestrial and aquatic habitats for organisms. For terrestrial habitats, the major biomes (e.g. tropical rain forests, taiga, savannah, desert) will be discussed in relation to the influence of major environmental factors. Community development discussions will focus on concepts such as succession, climax, species diversity and productivity. The course also looks at major aquatic communities (i.e. neuston, plankton, nekton and benthos), environmental factors and their roles in aquatic ecosystems, and the ecological classification of aquatic organisms.
Students are introduced to the marine ecosystem the physical, chemical and geomorphological characteristics of the ocean. The roles of physical and chemical factors on marine life are discussed, and the students exposed to the techniques of measuring these factors. The mechanisms and significance of coastal upwelling and the El Nino phenomenon are also examined.
The course examines the morphology and anatomy of fish. Students are introduced to morphometry, identification and taxonomy of fishes. Respiration; fish nutrition, locomotion; reproduction; early development and hatching and migration of fishes are discussed.
The course exposes students to definitions, history, purposes and the relationships of limnology with other disciplines. It discusses water and environment; features of inland water ecosystems (lotic and lentic systems) and freshwater biotic communities. It also examines impoundments (purposes, consequences, etc.), sustainable management of impounded water systems and pollution of freshwater systems will also be discussed.
This course introduces students to the basic anatomy and fundamental mechanisms involved in mammalian physiological functions. It includes a study of the structure and function of the organ systems involved in digestion, transport, respiration, co-ordination, excretion, reproduction, support and locomotion. Principles of homeostasis will be emphasized.