Conservation Genetics

Subject 207-508 (2009)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2009. Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 9 (Graduate/Postgraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject is not offered in 2009.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: Twenty-four hours of lectures, and 36 hours of tutorials and presentations
Total Time Commitment: Not available
Prerequisites: Introductory subjects in genetics [652-214 Principles of Genetics] and statistics [620-160 Experimental Design & Data Analysis] or equivalent.
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability
Subject Overview: On completion of the subject, students should have an appreciation of the principles of conservation genetics and be able to critically assess, design and implement genetic conservation strategies for in situ and ex situ species conservation.

This subject will explore the theory and application of genetics in species conservation, including:

  • principles of evolutionary genetics of national populations;
  • genetic consequences of declining population size and fragmentation;
  • population structure and patters of local adaptation;
  • inbreeding, outbreeding, hybridization and their effects on fitness and population viability;
  • molecular and quantitative trait variation;
  • measurement of diversity, data analysis and interpretation; and
  • genetic management of populations for conservation, including case studies of both plants and animals.
Assessment: Examination of two hours duration (40%), two assignments of 3,000 words each (25% each assignment) and seminar presentation (10%).
Prescribed Texts: None
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills: The subject will provide the student with the opportunity to establish and develop the following generic skills:
  • problem solving and critical thinking skills;
  • the ability to use conceptual models to rationalize observations; and
  • an understanding of the changing knowledge base.
Related Course(s): Master of Animal Science

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