The course comprehends the following subjects:
- Animal biodiversity: origin, value and main threats
- Evolution and systematics of Vertebrates: description of the different classes, main adaptations and phylogenetic relationships
- Assessment of animal population status by genetic monitoring
- Sampling, genetic analysis and data processing.
Lab activities on genetic monitoring of animal populations.
Practical training on statistical analysis of genetic data.
Through these educational experiences the student will allow to know the diversity of Vertebrates and its evolution, to learn the methods to monitor such diversity in nature. This will provide the student with the base knowledge to define experimental protocols for genetic monitoring of populations and the implementation of adequate investigation approaches and innovative technologies.