University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 1 and Spring | Credits: 5

This module is an introduction to the skills required to identify Irish plant and animal communities with special reference to legally protected species. The biogeography, life-cycles, distribution and ecology of a number of significant flora and fauna are assessed in addition to which their conservation status will be discussed in relation to ecological requirements. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the connections between their requirements and their conservation status.

Learning Outcomes
  1. Identify key elements of the flora and fauna of Ireland
  2. Appraise a number of locations to observe/describe the flora and fauna
  3. Distinguish between structure and morphology in relation to their ecology (e.g. plant architecture and pollination)
  4. Assess the life history and longevity of the species in relation to factors affecting various stages of the life cycle.
  5. Relate the flora and fauna observed to a range of features which provide a mosaic of habitats .
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "Ireland" by Cabot, D.
    Publisher: New Naturalist Library
  2. "The wild flowers of Ireland." by Doogue, D & Krieger, C
    Publisher: Gill & Macmillan.
  3. "An Irish Beast Book." by Fairley, J S
    Publisher: The Blackstaff Press.
  4. "The natural history of Ulster." by Faulkner, J & Thompson, R.
    Publisher: National Museums Northern Ireland.
  5. "Offaly's wildflowers." by Feehan, J.
    Publisher: Offaly County Council.
  6. "Exploring Irish Mammals" by Hayden, T, Harrington, R & Clarke, B
    Publisher: Town House Press
  7. "Galway’s living landscapes: Part 1 Eskers." by Hennessy, R., Feely, M., Cunniffe, C. & Carlin, C.
    Publisher: Galway County Council.
  8. "Wetlands of Ireland: Distribution, Ecology, Uses and Economic Value" by Otte, M. L.
    Publisher: University College Dublin Press
  9. "Flora Hibernica" by Pilcher, J. & Hall, V.
    Publisher: Collins Press
  10. "Ireland. Smithsonian Natural History Series." by Viney, M.
    Publisher: Smithsonian Books
The above information outlines module EV508: "Introduction to Flora & Fauna of Ireland" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.