Overview

This module will introduce state of the art conceptual and applied approaches to maintain and preserve biodiversity in a global change context.

• Rise of conservation biology • Threats to biodiversity • IUCN Red List assessments • Population viability analysis • Introduction to Conservation genetics • Introduction to Ex situ conservation • Species recovery plans • Species reintroductions and other conservation translocations • Design and management of protected areas • Habitat restoration • European perspective: legislation, Natura 2000 network, Green Infrastructure, etc. • Global perspective: convention on biological diversity

Assessment Strategy

Excellent (Grade A: mark range 70% – 100%) An excellent student should show a nuanced and critical understanding of the latest advances in ecology and ecosystem function, drawing on extensive factual knowledge of the historical context and the most recent advances in these subjects. Written work should demonstrate an ability to synthesise and interpret data from the primary literature and construct original interpretations. Presentations should promote engaged and insightful discussion that spans both the specific findings of studies and their broader implications for global issues in biodiversity conservation and landscape management. In all aspects of their work students should be able to use their knowledge and understanding of issues to identify weaknesses in current theory and propose solutions to address major gaps in current knowledge. 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. Written work 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, highly developed arguments.

Good (Grade B: mark range 60% – 69%) 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. Written work should demonstrate an ability to think about the subject and to synthesise lecture material and some information from background reading into coherent arguments. A good student should be able to describe the significance of current debates in ecology and ecosystem function by showing an in-depth knowledge of both the historical context and the most recent advances in the fields. Written work should demonstrate an ability to synthesise and interpret data from the primary literature in a structured and logical manner, and all assessments should demonstrate advanced capacity to organise acquired knowledge.

Threshold (Grade C: mark range 50% – 59%) A threshold student should have knowledge of the essential facts and key concepts presented in the module. Written work should demonstrate an ability to synthesise and interpret data from the primary literature in a structured and logical manner, and all assessments should demonstrate the general capacity to organise acquired knowledge. Presentations should both elucidate important background concepts and promote original discussion of unfolding issues.

Learning Outcomes

• To be able to apply IUCN Red List criteria to classify species according to their extinction risk

• To develop the expertise required to interpret how population viability analysis and genetics are implemented in conservation

• To learn the foundations of in-situ and ex-situ practices as part of species recovery plans

• To recognize the main approaches for ecosystem conservation, including the design of reserve networks, the land sparing vs. land sharing debate and restoration ecology

• To understand the main threats to biodiversity decline and species extinction