GEN3062

Conservation and ecological genetics

(SCI)

Associate Professor Steve McKechnie

6 points + 2 hours lectures and 3 hours practical/ tutorial/ discussion group per week + Second Semester + Clayton + Prerequisites: at least 18 points from any GEN, BOT, ZOO, BIO and MOL units, or BMS2042 (BBiomedSci students only)

Synopsis: Conservation requires knowledge of the reproductive and field biology of threatened plant and animal species. Modern molecular-genetic techniques provide valuable insights into population and breeding structure, movement patterns, and into levels of genetic relatedness and inbreeding within and between populations. Ecologically and evolutionary important processes that are affected by genetic variation levels, including resistance to disease, resistance to pollution and to environmental stress, and the process of adaptation to changing environments, are explained. Experience with relevant genetic techniques and with population genetic analyses are an integral part of the subject.

Assessment: Written (2000 words): 15% + Examination (3 hours): 50% + Practical reports and oral presentation: 35%