James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2022

BZ5450 - Ecological and Conservation Genetics

Available to postgraduate science students.

Subject Description

The continuing development of genetic techniques over recent years has opened new and exciting avenues in research in ecology and conservation. A rounded education in any ecological or conservation field requires awareness of the current use and future potential of genetic techniques. This subject introduces the student to these uses. Uses of molecular phylogenies and population genetic data will be introduced to demonstrate how these can trace the evolutionary history of a group and assist in biodiversity and conservation studies. Factors affecting the genetic structure of species will be covered, including the effects of social structure and population subdivision on gene flow. There is an emphasis on the use of genetic approaches to setting conservation priorities and in management of endangered populations.

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (50%) - Individual
• practical reports and 3000 word assignment - (30%) - Individual
• Written > Tutorial task - (20%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Assumed Knowledge:  Students enrolling in this subject should have an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (eg biology or environmental science) or have acquired equivalent knowledge through other study. They should have a good understanding of genetics and/or biochemistry, including knowledge of genetic inheritance, principles of evolutionary analysis and a fundamental understanding of whole organism biology.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  AG3003 AG5003 BZ3450

Availabilities