Conservation Biology

Catalog description

This course examines the biology underlying our attempts to conserve diversity at the level of genes, species, communities, and ecosystems. We will learn about the major issues and problems in conservation biology, and the tools biologists use to accomplish their conservation goals. We will apply qualitative and quantitative tools from population biology, and community and landscape ecology to learn how we can predict the vulnerability of populations and species to extinction. Example case studies and current events will allow us to explore issues such as reserve design and management, policy issues, reintroduction projects, and restoration efforts. Students will delve into the most recent conservation biology literature to become familiar with predominant debates and contentious issues in the field. The course is designed to help students develop a critical perspective, pertinent quantitative tools, and a vision of where the field of conservation biology came from and where it is headed.