Bot. 413 ECOLOGY II (2+3): 3

Bot. 413 ECOLOGY II (2+3): 3
Introduction: Sources of ecological knowledge. A. Evolution of Global ecosystems: Ancient and present. B. Environmental changes: Abiotic ( physical changes), biotic activities; mainly human. Negative changes: e.g. pollution/ overexploitation of natural resources. Positive changes: Advances in science and technology, genetics and control of epidemic diseases. Energy: Alternative sources; sun, wind. C. Strategic programs for disasters and risks evasion: New approaches to monitor and evaluate magnitudes of changes in: Social settings, quantitative and qualitative competition, degradation, density, dynamics. Prominent changes with: Local, regional and global impact; 1. Salinity/ loss of fertility/ fire. 2. Epidemics/ pests/ atomic residues/ desertification and drought. 3. Water and air pollution/ green-house effect.