BIOL8722 Conservation and Ecological Genetics GE

Professor Luciano Beheregaray

2021

4.5

1 x 120-minute lecture weekly
5 x 1-hour tutorials per semester
1 x 7-hour seminar per semester
1 x 3-hour laboratory per semester
3 x 3-hour computer labs per semester

^ = May be enrolled concurrently

1 Admission into GDPSCAQ-Graduate Diploma in Science (Aquaculture)
1a Admission into MEMG-Master of Environmental Management
1b Admission into MSCAQ-Master of Science (Aquaculture)
Must Satisfy: ((1 or 1a or 1b))

BIOL3722 has been successfully completed

Knowledge of genetics and ecology similar to that obtained in BIOL2711 Ecology and BIOL2702 Genetics, Evolution and Biodiversity.

This topic will teach students how to use genetic information to address consequential questions in ecology, conservation, evolution, behaviour and forensics. The topic will cover theoretical concepts, practical work and several case studies of real research in modern conservation and ecological genetics. Emphasis will be given to explain how different fields of science can benefit from integrating genetic knowledge into their research agenda. Topics covered include the use of data and theory in genetics and genomics to:

Reconstruct the tree of life
Manage wild and captive populations of endangered animals and plants
Clarify aspects of species biology, behaviour and demographic history
Elucidate cases of individual identity and paternity
Discover hidden biodiversity
Understand how historical and contemporary processes have shaped current levels of biodiversity

Students completing this topic will have a broad understanding of how genetic diversity is distributed in individuals, populations and species. This knowledge is essential to:

Understand ecological and evolutionary processes and human impacts on levels of biodiversity
Prioritize efforts in conservation biology

These two aspects are central in the formation of any modern professional in biological sciences.

On completion of this topic you will be expected to be able to:

Understand anthropogenic, ecological and evolutionary processes that affect the distribution of genetic variation in the natural world
Become familiar with main methods and statistical approaches used to generate and analyse genetic data from natural populations
Distinguish which type of genetic information can be used for different fields of science, namely: ecology, conservation, evolution, behaviour and forensics
Have enhance their oral and written communication skills

Key dates and timetable

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