The aim of the course is to provide the genetic analysis tools necessary to implement programs for the conservation and promotion of plant genetic resources. In particular, in the first part of the course the fundamental role of genetic diversity for the conservation of a population, how it can be measured and what phenomena can affect it will be analysed. In the second part of the course, the concepts studied in the first part will be applied in the analysis of case studies on the conservation (in situ and ex situ) and promotion of plant genetic resources.
Course Prerequisites
A basic knowledge of the concepts of Mendelian, quantitative, and population genetics is required. These concepts are reviewed in the Genetics pre-course "Principles of Mendelian, population and quantitative genetics", available on Kiro (pre-corses 2025-2026). Students who have not taken a Genetics course or who wish to revise these concepts are encouraged to attend this pre-course.
Teaching Methods
The course is structured in two parts. The first part is online and includes lectures on the theory of conservation genetics, as well as the reading and discussion of scientific articles focused on case studies related to the conservation and promotion of plant genetic resources. Students will also participate in activities (e-tivities) guided by a tutor, who will support them in preparing presentations on selected papers related to the course topics. The second part is held in person and involves laboratory activities and excursions to research centers specializing in techniques for the conservation and promotion of plant genetic resources
Assessment Methods
The paper presentations prepared during the e-tivities, guided by the tutor, will be evaluated and will contribute 50% of the final grade. At the end of the course, knowledge of the topics covered will be assessed through a written exam consisting of multiple-choice and open-ended questions. The evaluation of this exam will contribute the remaining 50% of the final grade.
Texts
As reference texts will be used: -Nigel Maxted , Danny Hunter, Rodomiro Ortiz Rios "Plant genetic conservation", Cambridge University Press, 2020, ISBN 9781139024297; -Frankham, R., Ballou, J. D., & Briscoe, D. A. (2004). A primer of conservation genetics. Cambridge University Press. -scientific papers that will be indicated during the course.
Contents
A fundamental prerequisite for correct conservation is an accurate characterization of the genetic resource of interest. In the first part of the course the concept of genetic diversity, its role in the conservation of plant genetic resources, the phenomena that can act by modifying it, the parameters used to quantify it in a population and the methodologies used to measure them will be described. Then, methods of conservation (in situ and ex situ) and promotion of plant genetic resources will be described, through the presentation of case studies.
