Conservation Biology

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Abstract

Conservation biology is the scientific study of the Earth's biodiversity with the aim of protecting genetic diversity, species, their habitats and ecosystems. In this subject, students build on their understanding of ecology to learn about genetic, species and ecosystem diversity, the main threats to biodiversity, and the current mass extinction crisis due to anthropogenic influences. We review a range of management approaches that are used in conservation biology to increase genetic health, population numbers and ecosystem functioning. Current and emerging conservation issues with potential socio-economic consequences are explored and discussed. On completion students are able to make professional judgments to generate possible strategies and courses of action to address conservation issues.

Syllabus

Topic 1: Introduction to conservation biologyTopic 2: Biodiversity-what are we trying to save?Topic 3: ExtinctionTopic 4: Rarity, vulnerability and conservation statusTopic 5: Threatening processes I: Habitat loss, degradation and fragmentationTopic 6: Threatening processes II: Overexploitation and invasive speciesTopic 7: Threatening processes III: Global climate changeTopic 8: Conservation at the species … For more content click the Read More button below.

Topic 1: Introduction to conservation biology
Topic 2: Biodiversity-what are we trying to save?
Topic 3: Extinction
Topic 4: Rarity, vulnerability and conservation status
Topic 5: Threatening processes I: Habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation
Topic 6: Threatening processes II: Overexploitation and invasive species
Topic 7: Threatening processes III: Global climate change
Topic 8: Conservation at the species level
Topic 9: Conservation genetics
Topic 10: Conserving ecosystem diversity I: Parks and reserves
Topic 11: Conserving ecosystem diversity II: Beyond park boundaries
Topic 12: Reintroductions, captive breeding and restoration ecology

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to explain and summarize the key terminology, principles and concepts underpinning conservation biology.

be able to explain and discuss the current biodiversity crisis, threatening processes and the need for conservation.

be able to analyse conservation strategies and evaluate the effectiveness of strategies that are implemented for the conservation of biodiversity.

Assumed knowledge

It is assumed students will have knowledge equivalent to BIO112

Enrolment restrictions

Incompatible