Integrated practical work in ecology and biogeography: biogeography of Belgium

Teacher(s)

Wesselingh Renate;

Language

French

Prerequisites

Fundamentals of ecology as seen for example in LBIO1117

Main themes

he students learn the biogeography of Belgium : the different biogeographical zones that are characterized by their climate, bedrock, and topography, and how these factors influence the composition of the local flora and fauna. In each zone, different successional stages can be found, and the students learn how to link these stages and determine the factors that are responsible for the transitions between stages. The role of human activities in determining the composition of flora and fauna, and the successional stage is an important element of the course.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :
1	These practical exercises illustrate the principles of ecology and biogeography that are addressed in the biogeography and ecology of individuals and populations courses. Its objective is to provide an understanding of how climate, geology, human action and local conditions influence the flora and fauna of a given place, with an emphasis on the links created by dynamics and succession.

Content

Several excursions are organized to different regions in Belgium (Brabant Wallon, Ardennes, the coast, Condroz, Fagne-Famenne, Calestienne), where we will visit sites with typical vegetations and animal communities. The students identify the plants present and measure pH of the soil, while information on geology, geomorphology and climate necessary to explain the composition of flora and fauna will be given. The excursions take place in September-October, plus one at the end of November (1st semester), and in April-May (2nd semester).

Evaluation methods

A written report is required for each region visited, and the student must demonstrate the ability to synthesize the information obtained from all excursions during an oral examination in June. The students can obtain feedback on their reports in order to improve the next reports. The report on one region will be chosen randomly for evaluation.
The final score is obtained from the score for the oral exam (75%) and the evaluated report (25%).

Other information

Students will be taken to the different sites by bus.

Online resources

Moodle website for LBIO1357

Faculty or entity

BIOL