Metapopulations

Metapopulations are populations of subpopulations that each have their own set of fecundity and survival rates. Today, the concept of metapopulations is fundamental for conservation ecology and genetics, applied population demography, and other disciplines. This module introduces the metapopulation concept, including the characteristics of the different types of metapopulations and importantly what is not a metapopulation. Metapopulations are essential to consider for management and conservation, especially in situations involving habitat fragmentation and reserve design. Students are asked to conduct a primary literature search on the topic of metapopulations, using scientific online journal databases (such as PubMed, Ingenta, etc.). Students then choose one article and summarize the objective of the study, experimental design or points argued, and conclusions. Students also prepare a critical analysis of the article.