CWE-20806 Population Ecology

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Studiepunten 6.00

Language of instruction:

Dutch

Assumed knowledge on:

MAT-10306, NCP-10503

Contents:

Population ecology covers the basic principles of population dynamics, population genetics and the evolution of life cycle strategies and foraging behaviour of living organisms are covered. The course integrates knowledge from the introductory course Ecology with skills and insights from Mathematics. The main goal is to develop a vision on population phenomena as influenced by proximate and ultimate factors. Students develop the ability to analyse, interpret and evaluate models of population processes and relate them to processes observed in the field. Applications of the course lay in nature conservation, biological pest control, fisheries management, and the management of diseases in populations of plants and animals. The content of the course is a mix of theoretical concepts, practical cases, exercises, computer simulations, and project activities. In addition to the theoretical framework in lectures, guest speakers will lecture on population ecological issues.

Examination:

Exam 50%, homework assignments and practicals 25%, case study (PGO) 25%.