Definition and scope of ecology; Ecological terminology and concepts; The biotic and abiotic factors influencing distribution and abundance of organisms; The concept of the biosphere; biomes. Ecosystem, competition and niche concepts; Ecological methods; Nutrient recycling and biogeochemical cycles; Structural and functional aspects of ecosystems and communities; Ecological succession; Trophic structure and production; Biogeochemical cycles; Dynamics of populations; Interaction within communities; Resiliency and fitness of ecosystems; Wildlands; wetlands; forests; rangelands. Human impacts on terrestrial ecosystems. Practicals and field visits.