Conservation and Management of Animals

General

Prefix

BIOL

Course Number

461

Course Level

Undergraduate

Department/Unit(s)

Biological Sciences

College/School

College of Science and Engineering

Description

Biology, ecology, population structures, sampling methods, management techniques, life histories and demographic analysis, ecosystems, and conservation of animals. Lab.

Prerequisites

Credits

Credit Hours

Min

Max

Repeatable

Goals and Diversity

MN Goal Course

Cultural Diversity

Learning Outcomes

Outcome

Describe the ecology and basic biology of the major groups of animals.

Outcome

Assess the major groups of commercially important animals found worldwide, invasive species, and common native and invasive animals of Minnesota.

Outcome

Specify the importance of biodiversity and mechanisms to conserve biodiversity.

Outcome

Assess the causes and consequences of threats to biodiversity.

Outcome

Determine conservation strategies to protect animal biodiversity in terrestrial and aquatic habitats.

Outcome

Summarize the causes of variation in population genetics and how population genetics informs our understanding of the history of animal populations through time.

Outcome

Construct population demographic assessments of animals, including sampling techniques and methods for estimating population size.

Outcome

Produce management strategies for sustaining populations of threatened, endangered, and commercially important terrestrial and aquatic animals.

Outcome

Develop a management plan for an invasive animal species.

Outcome

Evaluate the data and conclusions drawn from primary literature, particularly in relation to the conservation and management of animals.

Course Outline

Biomes, ecosystems, biogeography, and evolutionary ecology. 15% Biodiversity, species concepts, and taxonomy. 15% Threats to biodiversity and conservation plans for terrestrial and aquatic animals. 20% Population genetics, demographic assessment, and life history of animals. 15% Management of terrestrial and aquatic animals. 20% Identification and management of native, non-native, and invasive animal species. 15%

Dependencies

Programs

BIOL461 is a completion requirement for: