Hobart
Introduction
This unit will provide you with an advanced level of knowledge of the physiology of reproduction, stress and disease ecology in higher vertebrates. You will develop a comprehensive understanding of how knowledge of a species' physiology and behaviour, particularly in relation to reproduction, is critical to the implementation of sound conservation strategies and captive management. Retaining the theme of conservation management, you will gain an appreciation of the importance of understanding disease ecology and epidemiology for conservation and experience in applying this knowledge in novel situations. Fundamental topics covered will include: sexual differentiation; physiology of gestation and lactation in eutherian and marsupial mammals; comparative endocrinology of reproduction in birds and reptiles; adrenal physiology; the stress response; the transmission of infectious disease; causes of disease emergence in wildlife; and disease control. You will consider special topics including recent developments in: ethical considerations in animal research: reproductive technologies; stress effects on reproduction; non-invasive hormone monitoring; endocrine disruptors; disease surveillance; exposure versus infection; and understanding disease dynamics. In practical classes you will gain hands-on experience in relevant laboratory and theoretical research techniques as they apply to professional practice. The assessment in this unit will provide you with opportunities to demonstrate mastery in using primary literature to critique and apply knowledge and skills creatively in novel situations.
Summary 2020
| Unit name | Advanced Conservation Physiology and Disease Ecology |
|---|---|
| Unit code | KPZ716 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| Faculty/School | College of Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences |
| Discipline | Plant Science|Zoology |
| Coordinator | Ashley Edwards |
| Teaching staff | Elissa Cameron, Scott Carver |
| Level | Postgraduate |
| Available as student elective? | Yes |
| Breadth Unit? | No |
Availability
Note
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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.
Special approval is required for enrolment into TNE Program units.
TNE Program units special approval requirements.
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (see withdrawal dates explained for more information).
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this unit, you will be able to:
1. demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of the physiology, endocrinology of reproduction, adrenal function and disease ecology in the terrestrial vertebrates
2. Formulate decisions regarding the conservation and captive breeding of terrestrial vertebrates by synthesising information from a selection of relevant and valid sources
3. integrate observations, and draw conclusions which apply expert judgements from, practical activities
4. communicate your research effectively using a range of formats relevant to a wide range of audiences
5. Justify animal research from an ethical perspective through careful consideration of impacts on individuals relative to benefits for conservation
Fees
Requisites
Prerequisites
KZA212
Mutual Exclusions
You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:
KPZ306 or KZA350 or KZA750
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | 2 hr lecture and 3 hour practical each week |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Assessment Task 1: ethics assignment; 10% Assessment Task 2: discussion paper 12.5%; Assessment Task 3: critical review essay 25%; Assessment task 4:poster 12.5%; Final examination 40% |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required | None |
|---|
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