Course Description
A study of the interrelationships between organisms and their environment.
Prerequisite: Two semesters of biology or approval by the department
head.
Lecture: 3 hr/week
Lab: 3 hr/week
Textbook
Smith, R.L. 2001. Ecology and Field Biology, 6th edition. Harper Collins, N.Y.
Course Objectives
1. To study fundamental principals and concepts of ecology and apply these concepts to
understand the relationships of organisms
to their environment.
2. To gain an appreciation for the complexity of human influence on ecosystems.
3. To learn techniques for making environmental assessments using standard
methods and
equipment for data collection.
4. To gain experience in data analysis and presentation of results in
standard scientific format.
Lab
Studies will be conducted in aquatic and terrestrial habitats to assess the influence of physiochemical factors on plant and animal community structure. Aquatic studies will include chemical analyses of lakes and streams, and the collection and analysis of plankton and benthos. Terrestrial studies will be conducted at Hunewell Ranch and will emphasize community structure and ecological succession. A research paper will be required.
Due Date for Lab Research Paper
November 19 - Aquatic research paper due.
| September 17 | Lecture Exam 1 |
|---|---|
| October 10 | Lecture Exam 2 |
| November 10 | Lecture Exam 3 | November 19 | Comprehensive Lab Exam, 2:00 PM |
| December 10 | Lecture Final, 8-10:30 AM |