Population Ecology: Theories and Applications

Aim

The course is expected to provide advanced knowledge of concepts and theories in population ecology and their applications to some important environmental problems, to prepare for research and to give experience in scientific writing (reports). After completing this course, students should be able to give an account of analyze how ecological systems are affected by different kinds of disturbances, and perform viability and sensitivity analysis. Students are expected to improve her/his skills in both written and oral communication in areas of relevance for the course. Further they are expected to develop their ability to critically assess scientific papers and make scientific judgements.

Content

The course considers structure and dynamics of populations and species interactions in space and time. It includes applications of concepts and theories from these areas on some actual, important ecological problems, such as: protection of endangered species and biodiversity; biological control of pest species; sustainable harvesting of natural resources; the response of ecological communities to climate change and to habitat destruction and fragmentation; vulnerability and recovery ability of ecosystems subjected to different kinds of disturbances. To address these topics, students will read primary scientific literature within areas relevant for the course and critically assess and present scientific literature.