BIO416 Conservation Biology (8)

Conservation biology is the scientific study of the earth's biodiversity with the aim of protecting species, their habitats and ecosystems. In this subject , students build on their understanding of ecology to learn about the current state of biological diversity, the alarming extinction rates, and the main threats to biodiversity. A range of management approaches used in conservation biology are reviewed, and various controversies in the field are explored. There is no residential school associated with this subject. On completion students are able to make professional judgement to generate possible strategies and courses of action to address conservation issues.

Availability

Session 1 (30)
Online
Albury-Wodonga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: BIO416. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences

Enrolment Restrictions

Students who have completed BIO216 cannot enrol in this subject

Assumed Knowledge

BIO2%%

Incompatible Subjects

BIO216

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • have an understanding of the key terminology, principles and concepts underpinning conservation biology
  • have a comprehensive understanding of the biodiversity crises and the need for conservation
  • be able to apply this knowledge to (a) critically review management strategies that are implemented for the conservation of biodiversity and (b) make judgements on the effectiveness of these strategies
  • be able to apply professional judgement to develop future policies and approaches to address conservation issues at a regional, national and international level.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • 1. The scope and meaning of conservation biology: the ethical and philosophical basis
  • 2. Conservation policy in Australia
  • 3. Biodiversity: patterns and processes relevant to biological diversity; causes of biodiversity losses
  • 4. In-depth studies in population ecology and genetics; demographic processes
  • 5. Survey and experimental methods used in conservation biology
  • 6. Detailed case histories of successes and failures

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of BIO416 in Session 1 2021. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Impacts of novel diseases on native species
30
2
Population bottlenecks and inbreeding effects
20
3
Final exam
50

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: June 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

Back