Overview

Reproduction is a ubiquitous feature of life. Despite its fundamental nature, reproduction and behavioural and life history strategies around reproduction, are incredibly diverse. In this module we investigate the causes and consequences of this diversity across a wide range of animal taxa. The module will first consider how and when sex first arose, what the advantages of sex are, and why some animal taxa are able to reproduce without it. We will then examine how the evolution of separate sexes has influenced different aspects of life history with likely topics including maternal investment, viviparity, sexual dimorphism, and reproductive tactics. Next, we will investigate how animals both compete for and choose their mates. Finally, we will examine how modern genetic approaches allow us to better understand the evolution of mating systems.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold- A threshold student should have a basic knowledge of the essential facts and key concepts presented in the module. The practical report should demonstrate a basic ability to synthesise, interpret, and present data to test hypotheses. The report should also relate the findings from their data analysis to key papers in the field. In the exam, students should demonstrate a basic ability to synthesise and interpret data from lectures and readings in a structured and logical manner and demonstrate a general capacity to organise acquired knowledge. (Grade D or C; mark range 40-59%)

-good- A good student should have thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of the module, and be able to cite examples and case studies where appropriate. The practical report should demonstrate a clear ability to synthesise, interpret, and present data to test hypotheses, along with an understanding of the underlying assumptions and limitations of the analyses. The report should also relate the findings from their data analysis to a broad range of papers in the field. In the exam, students should demonstrate an ability to think about the subject and to synthesise lecture material and some information from background reading into coherent arguments. (Grade B; mark range 60-69%)

-excellent- An excellent student should have a high level of detailed factual knowledge across all aspects of the module, and be able to detail examples and case studies where appropriate. The practical report should demonstrate an ability to comprehensively synthesise, interpret, and present data to test hypotheses, along with an understanding of the underlying assumptions, biases, and limitations of the analyses. The report should also relate the findings from their data analysis to a wide range of papers in the field, along with suggestions for how future research could be conducted to answer unresolved questions. In the exam, students should demonstrate an ability to think critically about the subject and to synthesise lecture material and information from extensive background reading in support of detailed, developed arguments. (Grade A; mark range 70-100%)

For assessment details see 12.

Learning Outcomes

• Effectively articulate complex theories related to animal reproduction and critically evaluate the extent to which they are supported by observations and experiments.

• Integrate information from a wide range of disciplines to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of animal reproduction.

• Use statistical and data analysis techniques to effectively interpret and evaluate datasets related to animal reproduction, drawing conclusions and identifying potential limitations or areas for further research.