The qualifying year module Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour LIFE1031 (C11EEB), the second year modules Evolutionary Biology of Animals LIFE2046 (C12477) and the dissertation element of Higher Skills in the Biological Sciences LIFE2068 (C12HBS), and the third year module Population Genetics LIFE3010 (C43540) are desirable, but not essential.Also available to JYA/Erasmus students. Available to JYA/Erasmus students.

This lecture module describes the genetic effects of reduced population size, especially as they relate to the conservation of endangered species. Random genetic drift and inbreeding will be discussed in depth, both from theoretical and practical standpoints. The importance of heterozygosity and the consequences of a loss of genetic variability will be examined, and ways of alleviating these, using both experimental and theoretical approaches. This will lead into a review of the units of conservation from a genetic perspective.

To present an advanced review of the role of genetics in theconservation of endangered species.Objectives: Students completing this module should have acquired an advanced knowledge of the effects of limited population size upon genetic structure; the theory of inbreeding and inbreeding depression in captive and wild populations; the use of genetic technology to investigate population structure; ways of managing endangered species to maximise their genetic variability; and modern views of specific concepts.

One and a half hours of lectures per week.

One and a half hours of lectures per week.