Understanding Ecosystems and Environments of the Distant Past

Module code: GY4433

This module explores the evidence for global environmental and ecological changes during the Quaternary Period. This module:

1) provides a more specific consideration of regional responses, particularly in the low-latitudes.

2) takes a more technical consideration of the theory underpinning various climate/ecological proxies from continental and marine records.

3) gives students more opportunity for “hands-on” experience in generating and presenting palaleoecological proxy data.

Related to this latter aspect, the module involves lab work concerning optical microscopy and microscope slide preparation for the analysis of fossil pollen.