Conservation Biology in Practice (BIOL 4100/5420)
In this course we look at the application of basic ecological principles to conservation issues, using the text Principles of Conservation Biology (Groom et al), supplemented with readings from the scientific literature.
Conservation Biology in Practice is offered each Spring Semester. BIOL 4100 is the undergraduate section and BIOL 5420 is the graduate section.
Students are challenged with class activities, critique write-ups, readings with class discussions, hands-on exercises, and issue debates.
Goals for the course
- Learn basic concepts of applied ecology, including what makes species vulnerable to extinction and what approaches do we use for their conservation.
- Develop problem solving skills and approaches, including model building and data analysis.
- Refine critical thinking skills.
- Enhance understanding of the societal context of conservation.
- Acquire methods for dealing with uncertainty while addressing critical issues.
Topics Covered
- What is Conservation Biology?
- Biodiversity
- Conservation Genetics
- Demography & Population Dynamics
- Communities and Ecosystems
- Habitat Impacts (Alteration, Degradation, Loss and Fragmentation)
- Reserve Design
- Management for Conservation
- Overexploitation and Sustainable Harvest
- Invasive Species
- Climate Change
- Ecological Restoration
- Ecological Economics
- Decision-making and Policy
- Sustainable Development
- Conservation Challenges