300435 VO Animal biogeography (2008S)

The introductory part starts by defining basic terms and introducing the basic questions and concepts of biogeography. The principal abiotic and biotic parameters for the distribution and limits of dispersal of animals are presented. The aspects of global vegetation patterns, plate tectonics and glacial periods with respect to animal distribution and dispersal receive special emphasis. The major zoogeographical units of the terrestrial biota are defined by their characteristic fauna and their boundaries (e.g. the Wallace line). Similarly, the most important marine and limnic zoogeographic regions are treated. Special focus in this context is put on European rivers and the biogeographic history of the Mediterranean. The methodological part deals with the principals of panbiogeography and cladistic biogeography. Finally, applied aspects are discussed, such as species invasions and the impact of zoogeographical research on conservation issues.