OEKB002390 Evolutionary ecology

Type
Lecture
Semester hours
2
Lecturer (assistant)
Meimberg, Harald
Organisation
Integrative Nature Conservation Research
Offered in
Wintersemester 2026/27
Languages of instruction
Englisch
Content

The lecture provides an introduction to the theoretical foundations of evolutionary ecology and presents current research approaches and selected case studies. Its aim is to foster an integrated understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes and their relevance for both scientific research and contemporary societal challenges.
The course covers fundamental concepts such as adaptation, fitness, and natural selection, as well as the interactions between organisms and their biotic and abiotic environments. These topics are discussed in the context of current concepts such as the holobiont, the extended phenotype, and niche construction. Further topics include the evolution of life-history traits, the coevolution of species interactions including competition, predator–prey and host–parasite relationships, and the role of genetic variation in the adaptive potential of populations. In addition, the course addresses the spatial and temporal dynamics of evolutionary processes, the role of phenotypic plasticity, and the consequences of rapid environmental change for evolution and biodiversity.
Using current case studies, the lecture introduces key methods and experimental approaches in evolutionary ecology and discusses their importance for understanding biodiversity, climate change, biological invasions, and nature conservation. By integrating theoretical concepts with examples from contemporary research, the course provides students with a modern understanding of the reciprocal interactions between evolution and ecology.
Previous knowledge expected

Basic knowledge of ecology and evolution is desirable.
Objective (expected results of study and acquired competences)

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
-explain the fundamental concepts and theories of evolutionary ecology.
-analyse the interactions between ecological and evolutionary processes.
-apply key concepts of evolutionary ecology to contemporary scientific and environmental challenges.
-integrate ecological and evolutionary perspectives and evaluate their relevance for research and applied questions.
You can find more details like the schedule or information about exams on the course-page in BOKUonline.