BIOL 477
Evolution of Species Coexistence Spring 2023
Division III

How can two or more species coexist if they compete for the same resources? Or when one preys on the other? Understanding species coexistence has been central to ecology since its inception. The question is important because species diversity is a defining characteristic of natural ecosystems. This course provides an in depth look into the theoretical and empirical evidence for species coexistence. It also explores how the evolution of interacting species can change the identity and number of species in a community thereby playing a key role in determining and maintaining species diversity. Finally, the course will address how this body of theory and empirical evidence can be used to predict how we might expect diversity to change with increases in human-caused disruptions to the natural environment.