Study Guide

Objectives (course unit)

The aim of the course is to give the student basic information about natural diversity and especially the diversity of forest nature and the factors affecting it. The goal of the course is also to provide basic information about the means of safeguarding the diversity of forest nature.

After completing the course, the student:
• understands the concept and significance of biodiversity
• is familiar with the basic functioning of forest ecosystems
• recognizes the benefits provided by ecosystems, i.e., ecosystem services
• comprehends the significance of different tree species, both living and dead, for forest biodiversity
• is acquainted with the principles of classifying Finnish habitat types and the importance of various habitat types for biodiversity
• has a basic understanding of population biology and the prerequisites for species conservation
• is aware of the impacts of forestry on forest structure and the endangerment of Finnish species and habitat types
• knows the impact of forestry on water ecosystems and their biological communities
• recognizes endangered forest species and species groups, their habitat requirements, and the reasons for their endangerment
• knows the current status, goals, challenges, and methods for safeguarding forest biodiversity.

Content (course unit)

Biological diversity of forest ecosystems and the factors maintaining it. The fauna, structure, and functioning of forest ecosystems. Living and dead trees as habitats for forest species. Various habitat types and their significance for biodiversity. Changes in forest structure and forest nature caused by forest use. The impacts of forestry on aquatic ecosystems. Endangerment of species and habitat types and the influencing factors. Habitat requirements and reasons for endangerment of endangered forest species. The current status, goals, challenges, and the array of methods for safeguarding forest biodiversity

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2) (course unit)

The student ´s familiarity with the assigned materials is inadequate and mastery of the basic concepts is superficial

Assessment criteria, good (3-4) (course unit)

The student knows the basic concepts of forest biodiversity and the interrelationships between them well.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5) (course unit)

The student has a good command of the basic concepts of forest biodiversity and is able to explain the interactions between them diversely. The student is able to use various sources and materials creatively, analytically and critically and evaluate their validity.

Assessment scale

0-5