Year 11 Biology Students Explore Ecosystem Diversity at Long Reef

On Friday 29 May, Year 11 Biology students visited Long Reef, Collaroy, to investigate ecosystem diversity in a real-world coastal environment. Using field equipment, students collected data and surveyed organisms across the rock platform using quadrats and transects. They identified a range of marine life, including seaweeds, molluscs, crustaceans and echinoderms, while exploring their adaptations. Through hands-on investigation, students examined ecological relationships such as predator–prey interactions, competition and symbiosis, strengthening their understanding of biodiversity and food webs.

The excursion highlighted the importance of conserving coastal ecosystems and the impact of human activity, providing a valuable opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world scientific inquiry.