Conservation Genetics

Catalog description

Discussion of the use of genetic principles and technologies in the conservation and management of biological diversity. FOR 530 Conservation Genetics (3) This course will familiarize students with the roles of population genetics, phylogenetics, molecular genetics and quantitative genetics in conservation biology, and to examine in depth pertinent examples from the literature dealing with current applications of conservation genetics including genetic diversity, genetics at the landscape level, the effects of fragmentation on the genetic structure of species, and the role of modern genetics within ecosystem management. FOR 530 will provide a new and valuable component to the graduate curriculum of students interested in genetics, forestry, wildlife, fisheries, conservation, and endangered species. The current scientific literature will be critically reviewed and discussed in relation to case studies, on a range of topics. Evaluation will be based on participation, class presentations, and written papers. The course is to be offered biennially in the Spring in even numbered years.