Emphasis on field studies and ecological sampling techniques, followed by indoor data analysis and interpretation. Evolutionary basis for plant ecological traits. Weekly field trips to representative habitats in the state, including a weekend trip. Lab includes greenhouse, field experiments, and library reports. Interactions of biological, physical, and chemical factors in lakes and streams.
Emphasis is biological.
Concepts underlying the organization of living systems. Environmental adaptations of species, population, and community dynamics, energetics, nutrient flux. Practical applications of ecological concepts. Organism-environment interactions with emphasis on the limitations that the physical environment places on normal function. Focus on responses of animals, including man, to extreme environments.