654-305 Current Topics in Evolutionary Biology

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Subject Description:

This unit describes and evaluates contemporary issues in evolutionary biology. In particular, it highlights the relevance of evolutionary theory to ultimate explanations of all aspects of biological form and function. The contemporary issues in evolutionary biology covered in this unit include natural selection and the units of selection; species concepts; processes and patterns of speciation; hybrid zones; macro-evolutionary trends; adaptive radiations; the evolution of sex; sexual selection; sex allocation theory; and the evolution of life-histories. The unit provides an opportunity to assimilate and critically evaluate the relevant, contemporary literature, thereby ensuring a familiarity and understanding of current and controversial areas of systematic and evolutionary biology.

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