Module Details
Module Code: |
HLST S8001 |
Full Title:
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Conservation Genetics
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Valid From:: |
Semester 1 - 2018/19 ( September 2018 ) |
Language of Instruction: | English |
Module Owner:: |
Sergio Moreira
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Module Description: |
This module aims to provide the conceptual basis for understanding the genetics of biological problems in conservation. This module will provide an introduction to key concepts and tools of conservation genetics. By the end of this module students should be able to make informed decisions on the management of endangered species.
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Module Learning Outcome |
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: |
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Module Learning Outcome Description |
MLO1 |
Demonstrate a clear appreciation of the principles of conservation genetics |
MLO2 |
Apraise the application of population genetics to analyse complex ecological issues and identify solutions relating to conservation |
MLO3 |
Design, apply and interpret molecular data in relation to conservation genetics |
Pre-requisite learning |
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named DkIT module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
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52347 |
SCIAS7Z01 |
Molecular Bioscience |
53597 |
53597 |
Habitat and Wildlife Ecology |
Module Indicative Content |
Review of relevant genetic principles
Phenotypes and genotypes, allelic frequencies, understanding molecular markers, genetic variation in natural populations
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Random mating populations: Hardy-Weinberg principle
Hardy-Weinberg proportions, testing for Hardy-Weinberg proportions, estimation of Hardy-Weinberg
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Small populations and genetic drift
Genetic drift, changes in allelic frequencies, the inbreeding effect of small populations, loss of allelic diversity, founder effect and bottlenecks
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Population subdivision
F-statistics, gene flow and genetic drift, gene flow and natural selection, limitations of Fst and other measures of subdivision, estimation of gene flow, population subdivision and conservation
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Genetics and Conservation
Inbreeding depression, demography and extinction, estimation of population size, inbreeding depression and extinction
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Conservation Strategies
Conservation units, systematics and taxonomy, phylogeny and reconstruction, hybridisation, conservation breeding and restoration
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Practical Exercises
Practicals will be delivered through laboratory and computer-based sessions. During laboratory sessions students will acquire expertise in general molecular biology techniques. These include: DNA extraction, PCR, the role of molecular markers in differentiating cryptic species and its applications in phylogenetics. Computer-based practicals will allow the student to become familiar with different types of genetic data sets and the use of various open source software for genetic analyses. By completing these practicals, students will strengthen their understanding of basic population genetics theory in a conservation context. All sessions will emphasize the use of molecular data to inform management of endangered species.
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Learning and Teaching Resources
n/a
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Students will receive feedback in the following ways:
• Discussions with the lecturer will provide feedback throughout the module
• Academic feedback will be provided on continuous assessment
• Feedback on final examination will be given in line with the Institute’s policy
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Students will be supported in their learning in the following ways:
• Formal lectures
• IT based tutorials
• Small group investigation
• MOODLE site with tutor directed materials (e.g. links to literature, e-learning materials and contemporary scientific related topics)
• Independent study
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Module Assessment
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Assessment Breakdown | % |
Course Work | 10.00% |
Project | 15.00% |
Practical | 25.00% |
Final Examination | 50.00% |
Module Special Regulation |
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AssessmentsFull Time On Campus
Reassessment Requirement |
A repeat examination
Reassessment of this module will consist of a repeat examination. It is possible that there will also be a requirement to be reassessed in a coursework element.
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DKIT reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment
Module Workload
Workload: Full Time On Campus |
Workload Type |
Contact Type |
Workload Description |
Frequency |
Average Weekly Learner Workload |
Hours |
Lecture |
Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
3.00 |
3 |
Practical |
Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
3.00 |
3 |
Independent Study |
Non Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
4.00 |
4 |
Directed Reading |
Non Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
2.00 |
2 |
Total Weekly Learner Workload |
12.00 |
Total Weekly Contact Hours |
6.00 |
This module has no Part Time On Campus workload. |
Module Resources
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Recommended Book Resources |
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Frankham, R., Ballou, J.D., Briscoe, D.A.,. (2002), Introduction to Conservation Genetics, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK, [ISBN: 9780521639859].
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Allendorf, F.W., Luikart, G.. (2008), Conservation and the Genetics of Populations, Wiley-Blackwell, USA, [ISBN: 9781405121453].
| Supplementary Book Resources |
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Freeland, J.R.. (2005), Molecular Ecology, John Wiley and Sons, England, UK, [ISBN: 9780470090626].
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Felsenstein, F.. (2004), Inferring Phylogenies, Sinauer Associates Inc., Massachusetts, USA, [ISBN: 9780878931774].
| This module does not have any article/paper resources |
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Other Resources |
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Journal, Molecular Ecology,
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Journal, Conservation Genetics,
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