Module Identifier BS34020  
Module Title POPULATION AND CONSERVATION GENETICS  
Academic Year 2003/2004  
Co-ordinator Dr Glynis D Scott  
Semester Semester 2  
Other staff Dr James J Bell, Dr Joanne S Porter  
Pre-Requisite BS22120  
Course delivery Lecture   24 Hours  
  Other   15 Hours Workshop. 5 x 3 hours  
Assessment
Assessment TypeAssessment Length/DetailsProportion
Semester Exam3 Hours One 3-hour theory paper  60%
Semester Assessment Course Work: Three coursework assignments  30%
Semester Assessment2 Hours Oral Examination: Oral presentation  10%
Supplementary Assessment3 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 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). Approaches to conservation (Reserve Design. Species Vs Habitats) Metapopulations and population dynamics (Dispersive and systematic effects). 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. Population Viability Analysis. Minimum Viable Population). 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.
Frankham, R., Ballou, J.D. & Briscoe, D.A. (2002) Introduction to conservation genetics Cambridhe University Press

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6