OVERVIEW

Theodosius Dobzhansky, one of the most influential biologists of the twentieth century and among the principal architects of the Modern Evolutionary Synthesis, famously stated that “nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution.” Consistent with this perspective, the course Elements of Evolutionary Biology introduces students to the fundamental principles of evolution, providing a unifying framework for understanding biological phenomena. Particular attention will be devoted to the evolutionary mechanisms that have shaped the origin and diversification of life on Earth and that continue to drive the adaptation of organisms to different environments.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims to provide a unifying perspective for the broad range of knowledge that students will acquire throughout their degree program in Biological Sciences, fostering a comprehensive understanding of modern biology. This objective will be pursued through the study of the organization of living organisms, the origin of life, and the evolutionary processes that drive heritable changes in populations and their adaptation to different environments. Students will also be introduced to the scientific language and methodology that characterize the biological sciences.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of the course, students will be able to: i) describe the main characteristics of living systems; ii) understand the fundamental processes of biological evolution; iii) interpret biodiversity from an evolutionary perspective; iv) recognize the major stages of animal evolution; v) understand the biological significance of adaptation, speciation, and classification; vi) correctly use basic biological terminology; vii) relate structure, function, and evolution in animal organisms.

PREREQUISITES

No specific prerequisites are required. Basic knowledge of biology acquired during secondary education is recommended.

TEACHING METHODS

The course consists of lectures complemented by examples and classroom discussions. In order to foster student engagement and encourage critical thinking and analytical skills, examples and case studies relevant to the understanding of evolutionary processes and animal biodiversity will be discussed throughout the course.

Students with a physical disability or learning disability certification submitted to the University can find information on support services on the webpage https://unige.it/disabilita-dsa, prepared by the “Office for Inclusion Services for Students with Disabilities and SLD”.

Students may also contact Professor Cristina Carbone (cristina.carbone@unige.it), the DISTAV disability contact person.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Module 1. Biodiversity

Module 2. What is Life? Properties of Living Systems

Module 3. Origin of Life and Early Cellular Forms

Module 4. Origin and Evolution of Metazoans

Module 5. History of Evolutionary Thought

Module 6. Evidence for Evolution

Module 7. The Origin of Species

Module 8. Time and Evolution

Module 9. Classification of Living Organisms

Module 10. Evolution of Reproductive Strategies

Module 11. Evolution of Development and Body Plans

Module 12. Evolution of Feeding Strategies

Module 13. Comparative Evolution of Respiration, Circulation, and Excretion

Module 14. Human Evolution

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Lecture slides and additional teaching materials will be made available on AulaWeb after each class. Students are strongly encouraged to complement the study of course materials with a university-level textbook. Examples of recommended texts include:

• Campbell. Mechanisms of Evolution and the Origins of Diversity. Pearson.
• Evolution and Biodiversity. Edises.
• Futuyma D.J. Evolution. Zanichelli.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

FRANCESCO ENRICHETTI (President)

GIORGIO BAVESTRELLO

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Classes will begin according to the official schedule published by the Degree Programme.

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The final assessment consists of a written examination including both multiple-choice and open-ended questions.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Assessment will take into account the student's mastery of the topics covered during the course, their ability to present and discuss biological concepts, and their correct use of scientific terminology.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Regular attendance is strongly recommended. Students should refer to the course AulaWeb page for updates, announcements, and additional information.