Conservation Biology

The course studies the human-induced mechanisms of loss in all three levels of biodiversity (genetic, species richness, ecosystem). We discuss the trends of this loss and its consequences on human societies. We emphasize on quantitative tools of a) monitoring, b) viability analysis and c) determining suitable methods for the conservation of endangered species.

Objectives

The aim of the course is: -To understand the threats to Biodiversity and the role of Conservation Biology in a human-modified landscape -To apply ecological concepts to conservation problems -To use quantitative tools for the monitoring, conservation and management of threatened species/populations. Emphasis is given to the conservation of processes related to Biodiversity (evolutionary processes, ecosystem functioning).

Prerequisites

Animal Biology Introduction to Ecology

Syllabus

1.Biodiversity crisis and Conservation Biology. 2.Major threats to biodiversity. 3.Population dynamics: modeling and monitoring. 4.Vortex of extinction and population viability analysis. 5.Conservation Genetics. 6.Conservation of metapopulations.