Prerequisites:

First-cycle Bologna degree or a university degree in the natural sciences.

Content (Syllabus outline):

• Geographic pattern of distribution (species, higher taxa and communities) and historic reasons
• Biomes and habitat types
• Vicariance
• Dispersion
• Endemism
• Extinctions
• Rarity and endangered species
• Reasons for biodiversity loss
• Monitoring
• Nature conservation ecology tools

Readings:

• Woodward S.L. (2003). Biomes of Earth. Greenwood Press.
• Chapin III F. S., Matson P. A. & Vitousek P. (2011). Principles of terrestrial ecosystem ecology. Springer Science & Business Media, 529 p. (part III, chapter 15)
• Hurford, C., Schneider, M. (eds.) (2006). Monitoring Nature Conservation: A Practical Guide and Case Studies. Springer, Dordrecht, The Netherlands. (part III 37-140, chapter 18, chapter 29)
• Selected articles from scientific journals

Objectives and competences:

The purpose of the course is to familiarize students with the basics of biogeography, mainly with patterns of species and distribution and their communities. Basics of biogeography will be linked to nature conservation principles. Students will learn about practical work in the field of nature conservation and be able to critically interpret the results.

Intended learning outcomes:

Through lectures the students will gain knowledge and understanding about the linkage of biogeography and nature conservation. Students will get familiar with basic characteristics (structure, species composition and distribution) and functions of ecosystems. This knowledge will be connected to threats and nature conservation actions.

Students will get competences in individual collection of data about biodiversity and nature conservation and be able to present them in writing or orally (seminar).

Assessment:

Short written seminar and its presentation (40 %), examination (60 %).