Introduction to evolution

The aim of this course is to understand evolutionary processes on both micro- and macro-evolutionary scales.

Using examples, manipulations and accessible modeling, the aim of the lessons is to present, in a concrete and quantitative way, the effects of the 4 evolutionary forces operating on the scale of individuals and populations (mutation, migration, selection and drift). The integration of these micro-evolutionary processes on larger time scales (e.g. differentiation between lineages, speciation) will then be addressed. Finally, the course will include an introduction to the tools of phylogeny (tree reading and construction), making it possible to study macro-evolutionary events (diversification, extinction) and trace changes in character states, notably by integrating fossil data.

Contact details of manager(s) (tel/mail) : mathilde.dufay @ umontpellier.fr (mathilde.dufay @ umontpellier.fr)bruno.guinand@umontpellier.fr

- Understanding the precise effect of the 4 evolutionary forces on the evolution of traits in populations

- Knowing the scenarios that allow polymorphisms to be maintained

- Understanding the main speciation scenarios

- Linking microevolutionary processes to macroevolutionary patterns

- Interpret phylogenies and learn the basics of phylogenetic tree construction