Genetics for Ecology and Evolution unit (KPZ309)

Introduction

This unit focuses on the application of genetics to ecology and evolution, with a particular emphasis on biodiversity conservation and restoration. It also examines how traits, genes and genomes change over time, and how this can be applied to understanding of genetic diversity and evolution at the level of populations, species and higher-order taxonomic groupings. Lectures will be illustrated by discussion of several key examples drawn from both plant and animal studies. Laboratory, computer and field-based practical classes will introduce students to restoration genetics field experiments and their analysis; genetic simulations under conservation scenarios; the use of DNA markers in biological forensics; and how we determine how traits evolve.

This unit is an elective at Year 3 in the BSc Plant Science Major. With KPZ310, this unit provides students with advanced 300-level training in genetics, building on content in KPZ215. It is also recommended for students enrolled in KPZ308 who are interested in the application of genetics to biodiversity conservation and restoration.

Summary

Unit name	Genetics for Ecology and Evolution
Unit code	KPZ309
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences
Discipline	Biological Sciences
Coordinator	Doctor Rebecca Jones
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Advanced

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

• Explain how genetics can help inform plant and animal conservation strategies
• Explain how genetics can be used to study the evolution and diversity of living organisms
• Analyze and interpret genetic data to draw conclusions about the evolution and diversity of populations and species
• Communicate genetics and evolution information for a range of purposes and using a variety of modes relevant to professional scientists

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Prerequisites

KPZ215 - Genetics and Evolution OR KPA215 - Genetics and Evolution

Mutual Exclusions

You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:

KPA377 AND KPA373

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	2 hour lectorial and 3 hour practical each week, except for up to two weeks where1-day field trips will be held
Assessment	Sex determination report (10%)|Ecological genetics report (25%)|Practical class assessments (25%)|Examination (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.