Module Identifier BS34020  
Module Title POPULATION AND CONSERVATION GENETICS  
Academic Year 2002/2003  
Co-ordinator Dr Simon S Creasey  
Semester Semester 2  
Other staff Dr Glynis D Giddings  
Pre-Requisite BS22120  
Course delivery Lecture   24 Hours  
  Other   3 Hours Workshop. 3 x 3 hours  
  Practical   2 Hours Two 3-hour  
Assessment Semester Exam   3 Hours One 3-hour theory paper   60%  
  Semester Assessment   Course Work: Three coursework assignments   30%  
  Semester Assessment   2 Hours Oral Examination: Oral presentation   10%  
  Supplementary Assessment   3 Hours One 3-hour theory paper (plus resubmission of failed courswork or an alternative)    

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to write examination essays which demonstrate a clear appreciation of

Aims

To provide the theoretical background for understanding population genetics and its relevance to conservation. To inform of the way in which molecular techniques can be used for the management of rare and threatened species. To motivate students, by considering the how population genetics is used for the management of particular endangered species, and by considering how medicine and health care has affected the genetic makeup of human populations.

Content

Review of basic population genetics (Hardy Weinberg & changes in gene frequency). Non-random mating & the consequences of inbreeding. The influence of humans on the populations of other species and on themselves (How the loss of biodiversity & genetic diversity affects ecosystem function & environment; Do GMOs present a risk to the environment? Host ? parasite interactions; medicine and health care influences on human populations). In situ conservation (The use of molecular markers. Extinction and preservation). Ex situ conservation (Gene banks - preserving genetic diversity for conservation. Reproductive technology).

Reading Lists

Books
** Recommended Text
Cook, L.M.. (1991) Genetics & ecological diversity. Chapman & Hall.
hoelzel, A.R. & Dover, G.A.. (1991) Molecular genetic ecology. Oxford University Press.
Hartl, D.L. & Jones, E.W.. (1998) Genetics: Principles and analysis. 4th. Jones & Bartlett.
Snouls, M.. (1987) Viable populations for conservation. Cambridge University Press.
Snustad, Simmons & Jenkins. (1997) Principles of genetics. John Wiley & Sons.