BIOL 480 - Evolutionary Biology

Institution:

Randolph-Macon College

Subject:

Description:

Evolution is the foundation on which all of biology rests. An understanding of the mechanisms by which evolution occurs can give insight into a variety of problems in fields ranging from medicine to environmental science. This course first addresses the evidence for evolution and the population genetic mechanisms by which it can occur. One of these mechanisms, natural selection, can result in adaptation which is central to understanding much of the diversity observed both now and in the past. Next, the role of chance in evolution is examined in order to understand that not all evolution proceeds by natural selection. Central to this course is the concept of a species and the processes by which new species may arise. This aspect of evolutionary biology also encompasses the question of classification. Do we classify organisms based on similarity or relatedness? How can we know relatedness? Finally, we examine the process of extinction, both locally and in the present and globally and in the past, in an effort to understand patterns or trends over time in diversity. Three lectures per week. Prerequisites: BIOL 111-112 or BIOL 121-122. Offered alternate years. Three hours. Staff.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.rmc.edu

Phone Number:

(804) 752-7200

Regional Accreditation:

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Four-one-four plan

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