88265 - Animal Diversity and Distribution in a Changing Climate

Learning outcomes

The aim of this course is to impart knowledge about animal diversity and biogeography linked to climate changes. In historical ages, in fact, animal natural distribution, as a product of evolution, has been often confused from anthropic activities. Climate changes, though, is currently boosting the process with an impact deeper than ever on animal diversity. Ranges of distribution can be either reduced or widened, promoting biodiversity loss/extinction or leading to new species relationships. Therefore, ecological equilibria can be severely modified, also because of the phenomenon – among others – of alien (invasive) species. Through the course - also based on current literature and online resources analyses – students will acquire the ability to discuss case studies of animal distribution following climate changes, to explain habitat dynamics (loss in biodiversity and alien species) and analyze methods for animal resources conservation halting biodiversity loss.

Course contents

Principles of animal diversity and distribution. Niches and distribution ranges. Diversity and distribution of animals in food webs. Community composition in space and time. Population dynamics of predation and distribution of predators and prey. Terrestrial ecosystems biodiversity. Evolutionary factors: speciation and extinction; dispersal and migrations. Island biogeography. Climate change and conservation biology. Animal distribution in relation to Protected Areas. Anthropic factors affecting animal diversity and distribution. Invasive and alien species (IAS). Methods to study animal biodiversity and distribution: step 1) data collection from biodiversity platforms, online datasets, field work, etc.; step 2) data analysis through species distribution / occupancy / N-mixture models, resource selection functions, species-habitat associations, etc.; step3) interpretation of the results of the analyses and discussion of their main implications in light of conservation and management.

Readings/Bibliography

There are not required books. Course material (slides, academic papers, etc.) will be provided by the instructor.

Teaching methods

Theoretical lectures, practical exercise with computers, analysis and presentation of case studies.

Due to the course’s activities and learning methodologies, attendance will be subject to prior participation of all students to the following mandatory e-learning Modules 1 and 2:

Module 1 [https://elearning-sicurezza.unibo.it/course/view.php?id=23] – Safety General Training

Module 2 [https://elearning-sicurezza.unibo.it/course/view.php?id=43] – Safety Specific Training (part I)

Assessment methods

The exam at the end of the course aims to evaluate the following achievements:

Knowledge and understanding of biogeographical patterns of animals;

Ability to recognize and understand factors that can modify the diversity and distribution of animal species/populations;

Understanding of invasion dynamics of IAS;

Understanding of the role played by anthropic activities in shaping diversity and distribution of animal species/populations;

The final mark will be assessed through oral examination.

Teaching tools

Theoretical lectures, with power point presentations and practical exercises with computers.

All slides, files, tutorials and other material used during the course will be provided to students by the instructor.

Office hours

See the website of Marco Musiani

See the website of Pietro Milanesi