Genetics and the environment
Associate Professor Stephen McKechnie
4 points * Two 1-hour lectures and one 2.5-hour laboratory/tutorial session per week * Second semester * Clayton * Prerequisites: BIO1011 and either BIO 1022, BIO1032 or BIO 1042. Either VCE Chemistry or CHM1011 and CHM1022 is strongly recommended
Objectives On the completion of this subject, students will have a basic understanding of those genetic principles and techniques of molecular genetics that are relevant to contemporary issues in conservation and quality of the environment; an awareness of the nature of genetic variation among individuals in a population with an appreciation of whether variation is due to genetic or environmental causes; gained appreciation of and some experience in using modern techniques in molecular genetics that are applied to environmental problems such as identification of transgenic or polluting organisms and identification of mutagenic or carcinogenic chemicals; developed skills in experimental design and analysis; improve their written and verbal skills associated with the presentation of scientific data.
Synopsis This subject deals with those aspects of genetics that are relevant to contemporary issues in conservation and quality of the environment. It also examines aspects of genetics that relate directly to whole organisms, to their adaptation to environmental stress, and to their management in the botanical, zoological or agricultural context. Environmental mutagenesis and the impact of biotechnology on the environment are covered in some detail. Techniques useful in zoological, conservation and forest breeding programs, in detection of genetic variation and mutation are included for the identification and classification of polluting and transgenic organisms in the environment. Practical projects and discussion groups will introduce students to methods of experimental design and analysis, provide experience with organising and leading discussion groups, experience with the interpretation of field data, and with the presentation of reports.
Assessment Examinations (3 hours): 40% * Practical work: 30% * Assignments: 30%
Prescribed texts
Hoelzel A R and Dover G A Molecular genetic ecology OUP, 1991
Recommended texts
Cauthier M J (ed.) Gene transfers and enviornment Springer-Verlag, 1992
Hoffman A A and Parsons P A Evolutionary genetics and environmental stress OUP, 1991
Mettler L E Population genetics and evolution 2nd edn, Prentice- Hall, 1988
Moutschen J Introduction to genetic toxicology Wiley, 1985
Primack R B Essentials of conservation biology Sinauer, 1993
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