BIOO 210 - Natural History of the Aquatic Vertebrates

4 Credit(s)

This survey course introduces students to the biology, ecology and natural history of marine and freshwater vertebrates. The first half of the course will cover fish species while the remaining half of the course covers amphibian, reptile, bird and mammal species. Students explore aquatic vertebrates from around the world based on their structure (anatomy), function (physiology), relationship to other vertebrates (taxonomy and evolution), interaction with the environment (ecology) and value to humans. Discussion topics include sustainable fisheries, global amphibian declines, behavior of large predators such as sharks and crocodiles, pollution impacts on aquatic vertebrates, bird migrations, and management of marine mammals in captivity and the wild. Experiential learning activities include the study of preserved and living vertebrate specimens, review of primary literature on aquatic vertebrate ecology, participation in citizen science service learning projects, and discussion of challenges to sustainable and ethical management of aquatic vertebrates. Students are assessed based on daily participation in class activities, a literature review and presentation on a specific aquatic vertebrate, and exams. $50 course fee

Nat Sci.
Prerequisite(s): equivalent of M 095 or higher.
fall /odd numberd years