Urbanization & Biodiversity - Fall 2026
This course reviews the many ways that organisms respond to urbanization and the challenges of living in urban areas, encompassing physiological, behavioural, and life history responses of individuals, evolutionary adaptations of populations, and changes in composition and dynamics of ecological communities. Discussions will focus on broad patterns that help us better understand how cities impact biodiversity, and why some organisms tolerate urban challenges so much better than others. Syllabus
Aquaculture, Biotechnology and Environment - Winter 2027
Aquaculture has evolved during human civilization allowing us to divorce the traditional hunting- fishing and-gathering lifestyle. With the fast-growing human population, more intensive aquaculture is gradually overtaking the traditional fishery to meet our ever-increasing demands for dietary protein and nutrition. The introduction of modern technologies including biotechnology in aquaculture is having profound impact on this fast-growing “industry” and its operation. In return, the industry also creates new challenges concerning environment quality, human and ecosystem health, conservation, and sustainable development of natural resources. This module will discuss issues influenced by biotic and abiotic factors as well as the socio-economic aspect of aquaculture practice in today’s world. We will also explore the application of different biotechnologies in aquaculture industries. Syllabus
Important Information
Prerequisite
Level 4 or above and registration in a Biology Honours Plan and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List or permission of the Department.
