BT2300:03
Conserving Genetic Diversity
Townsville
Prerequisites: BZ1020 (BT1020 or ZL1001)
20 lectures, 10 tutorials, 20 hours practicals. Second semester.
Staff: Dr L Bielig.
This subject examines the genetic basis of diversity in plants and animals. The conservation of genetic diversity and its use in genetic engineering of plants and animals will be considered at the level of the whole organism. The significance of conserving genetic diversity in dealing with environmental problems will be discussed and the limitations and consequences of gene manipulation will be considered.
Learning Objectives:
- to understand Mendelian genetics, gene interaction, sex determination and the effects of changes in chromosome structure and number;
- to understand the need to conserve genetic diversity and its use in genetic engineering of plants and animals;
- to understand genetic variation within and among populations and its implications for conservation biology;
- to understand techniques used by geneticists, cytogeneticists, breeders, population geneticists and conservation geneticists.
Assessment by a two-hour examination (60%); on-course reports (40%).
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