Animal Behavioral Biology

The goal of this course is to understand animal behavior in an integrative manner, in light of Tinbergen’s four “whys,” from its ontogeny to its evolution: from its ontogeny and neurobiological causes to its evolution and biological functions. In addition to historical, conceptual, and methodological insights, students will be guided to understand the diversity of the traits involved as well as the variety of scientific approaches and questions associated with them.

Majors: L1, L2, L3S5

Responsible person(s): Aurélie CELERIER (Bio-MV); Olivier DURIEZ (BE) 

Contact information for the person(s) in charge (phone/email): aurelie.celerier @ umontpellier.fr; olivier.duriez @ umontpellier.fr;

Subject-Specific Skills

- Understand and be able to apply the various approaches and tools used in evolutionary biology and ecology: observation, sampling, experimentation, modeling, and statistical analysis

- Understand the applications of organismal biology, evolutionary biology, and ecology (health, agronomy, conservation, restoration)

- Understand the relationships between genotype and phenotype (morphology and anatomy, behavior, interactions) and their evolution

- Understand species interactions within communities and their role in the structure and dynamics of biodiversity

- Understand the impact of stress and natural and human-induced disturbances on biodiversity (from the organism to the biosphere)

- Understand the main applications of ecology (health, agronomy, conservation, restoration)

- Knowledge of major physiological functions and their diversity, in interaction with the biotic or abiotic environment

Cross-Functional Skills

- Understand and be able to apply the various approaches and tools used in evolutionary biology and ecology: observation, sampling, experimentation, and statistical analysis

- English: know the scientific vocabulary related to the disciplines; understand a simple written or oral scientific source; be able to understand a general-interest document in English (written, oral, or video)

- Be able to apply concepts and tools from various disciplines to analyze a document, an observation, or the results of an experiment

- Be able to develop a logical argument using critical thinking (identifying limitations, cross-referencing with the literature, defending a point of view)     

- Be able to deliver an oral presentation and write a scientific report, using illustrations and a presentation style appropriate for the target audience, with the help of appropriate computer tools

- Be able to identify a research question, propose and implement an observational approach, a sampling plan, or an experimental design, and analyze the resulting data using computer tools for data entry, analysis, and storage

- The ability to successfully carry out a project as part of a team

- Be able to work independently, adapt to new situations, and take appropriate initiative

- Know how to position oneself within a group to help carry out the project; know how to listen and engage in discussion

- Respect others, as well as the equipment and organisms we are working with