BL3316 Co evolution living together
(BL3316 online module handbook version 87)
image: Hummingbird pollinating flower†
This module considers coevolution: how organisms influence the evolution of other organisms around them. Some of the most exquisite and remarkable adaptations in the natural world are the products of coevolution, from the elaborate displays of birds-of-paradise to the sexual mimicry of orchids. We will consider coevolution within a species, focusing in particular on the interactions between males and females, and also coevolution between species, including animal-plant interactions, host-parasite interactions, and predator-prey interactions. Topics to be considered in detail will be sexual selection, pollination biology, herbivory, prey defences, the evolution of virulence, and the ecology of coevolution, focusing in particular on tritrophic interactions between animals, plants and fungi. Finally, we will consider broader themes in coevolution, including the geographic mosaic theory of coevolution and applied aspects of coevolution.
*Credits: 20*
Semester: 2†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:Before taking this module you must pass BL2304 or pass BL2307 or pass BL2312*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL3316: Assessment
3-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL3316: Contributing Staff †
BL3316: Learning Outcomes †
Students completing module BL3316 successfully should be able to:
- Explain the basic principles of coevolution at the intra- and interspecific level
- Understand how coevolution shapes species interactions and can affect ecosystems
- Compare and contrast detailed examples of coevolutionary interactions in different contexts and systems
- Discuss the mechanisms that can maintain mutualisms
- Develop skills for scientific exploration and analysis
BL3316: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
- Field sampling methods (Botanics)
- Fixing and preserving specimens
- Measuring specimens using calipers
- Species identification (Botany)
Transferable Skills
- "Short" practical write-up (e.g. completed worksheet)
- Paper critique
- Critically evaluating sources/information
- Finding information on the web
- Finding literature
- Referencing
- Searching databases
- Data analysis
- Use Excel
- Use R or R Studio
- Lab or field notebook
- Critiquing experimental design
- Designing experiments
- Organising group work
- Working in pairs/small groups
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/
