New, T.R. (1995) An Introduction to Invertebrate Conservation Biology, OUP, Oxford
New, T.R. (2005) Invertebrate Conservation and Agricultural Ecosystems, CUP, Cambridge
New, T.R. (2009) Insect Species Conservation, CUP, Cambridge
Samways, M.J.; McGeoch, M.A. & New, T.R. (2010) Insect Conservation: A Handbook of Approaches and Methods. OUP, Oxford
Speight, M.R.; Hunter, M.D. & Watt, A.D. (2008) Ecology of Insects: concepts and applications 2nd Edition. Wiley-Blackwell, Chichester

Laptop and data projector
Library

Contact time 24h lectures

126h of independent study researching material and preparing the assignments

- 40% Prepare a briefing paper (1500 words) on the management options available for conserving invertebrates in a named biotope, and their impact on different components of the biota. To assess outcome 1

- 60% Prepare a report (2000 words) that identifies the ecological constraints/parameters that impact on the conservation of a named species or group of species, and propose and justify management actions that could be used to overcome the identified constraints. To assess outcome 2

Additional Assessment Details (including formative feedback / assessment):
Students may submit a draft copy of assessments for formative feedback

Invertebrate conservation management relies on a thorough understanding of the biology and ecology of the 'target' species. Invertebrates are very sensitive to small changes in their habitats: subtleties in site conditions and delicate interrelationships between organisms can spell the difference between abundance and extinction. However, isolated colonies are usually doomed to extinction, and studies on invertebrates have led the development of our understanding of the importance of maintaining meta-populations for long-term viability. This module will explore invertebrate conservation management using examples ranging from rural semi-natural to urban brownfield sites. Studies will include: identification of high quality invertebrate sites, key invertebrate groups in different biotopes, site- and landscape- level approaches to conservation. The module will also incorporate underpinning ecological concepts such as spatial ecology, mutualism, density-dependent/independent effects, etc. The scope and effectiveness of policy and legislation in promoting invertebrate conservation will be explored.