Introduction to Evolution

The objective of this EU is to understand evolutionary processes at both the micro- and macro-evolutionary scales.

Using examples, manipulations, and accessible modeling, the lessons will aim to present in a concrete and quantitative manner the effects of the four evolutionary forces operating at the individual and population levels (mutation, migration, selection, and drift). The integration of these microevolutionary processes on larger time scales (e.g., differentiation between lineages, speciation) will then be addressed. Finally, the course will include an introduction to phylogenetics tools (reading and constructing trees) for studying macroevolutionary events (diversification, extinction) and tracing changes in character states, in particular by integrating fossil data.

Contact details of the person(s) in charge (phone/email): mathilde.dufay @ umontpellier.frbruno.guinand@umontpellier.fr

- Understanding the precise effect of the four evolutionary forces on the evolution of traits in populations

- Know the scenarios that allow polymorphisms to be maintained

- Know the main scenarios of speciation

- Link microevolutionary processes to macroevolutionary patterns

- Interpret a phylogeny and understand the basics of constructing phylogenetic trees