1.1 On a map of the world show the major climatic zones (Tropical, Subtropical,
Temperate, and Polar Zones). Briefly explain the origin of this zonation pattern.
What does bipolar, antitropical, tropical and cosmopolitan distribution mean
(use words and figure(s) to explain)? Search for an example of a modern species
or genus with bipolar or antitropical distribution. Plot its distribution on the
climate map.
1.2 On a map of the world, use different colours, to show, label and categorise
(warm and cool water) the following major surface and bottom currents of the
world oceans.
The Gulf Stream
The Pacific Equatorial Currents
The Pacific Equatorial Counter Currents
The Kurishio Current (= North Pacific Drift) The Oyashio Current
The East Australian Current
The Leeuwin Current
The Capes Current (WA)
The Antarctic Circumpolar Current
The California Current
The Humboldt Current
The Global Ocean Conveyor Belt
1.3 Often we hear in the news of rubber ducks (Clerkin, 2007), Lego (Petit, 1998), Nike shoes
(McKie, 1992), or oil spills washing up on distant shores. Many species can also use the
ocean currents as a mechanism for migration/dispersal.
Conduct a digital literature search to try and find a species that has
colonised/invaded an area by ‘floating’ in on the ocean currents.
Briefly describe the species and provide its scientific name.
Construct a map to show the migration pattern of the species
Discuss its dispersal mechanism and distribution pattern.
1.4 Discuss why the world’s major coastal upwelling systems tend to occur on the western
sides of major continents. How does this influence the distribution pattern of Spheniscus
humboldti Meyen, 1834 (Humboldt Penguin)?
1.5 On a map of the world mark on the major mountain belts and where ‘rain shadows’
occur (orographic effect). Describe how major mountain ranges affect climate systems
and biotic distribution.
5. References
Clerkin, B. 2007. Thousands of rubber ducks to land on British shores after 15 year journey. Mail
Online. Retrieved 31/10/13,
Petit, C. 1998. Lots of Lost Legos May Turn Up on Your Beach. US News and World Report. Retrieved
31/10/13,
McKie, R. 1992. Oceanographers Find Lessons In The Great Nike Shoe Spill. The Seattle Times.
Retrieved 31/10/13,