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Environmental Microbiology and Ecology (7416ENG)

Course profile

This course introduces the importance of microorganisms to natural and man made ecosystems, biogeochemical cycles, trophic pathways and their beneficial applications to modern industry. The course provides an understanding of the relationships of living organisms – microorganisms, plants and animals with each other and their abiotic environment. Fundamentals include microbial metabolism (aerobic and anaerobic respiration, photosynthesis, chemosynthesis, energy transformation); cellular transport (diffusion, osmosis and active transport); microbial growth; microbial genetics and environmentally significant biochemical pathways. The taxonomic classification of autotrophic and heterotrophic organisms will be covered together with their resource requirements – light, oxygen and nutrients. Ecosystem concepts of food webs, energy flow and mineral cycles, including the bioaccumulation and biomagnification of pollutants. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of micro-organisms in decomposition, biogeochemical cycles, waste water treatment, bioremediation, water quality and human and ecosystem health. The laboratories cover microbial biodiversity, techniques for the culture, staining and emumeration of microorganisms, animal and plant diversity with emphasis on bioindicators, water quality and macroinvertebrate sampling.

View course overview on the Griffith University website.

Course study information

Credit points (awarded): 10

Course code: 7416ENG

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