Discussion of biotechnological aspects of microbial ecology will be included. The self-paced format can be used for biology major or minor requirements, but not for Senior Experience credit. A detailed consideration is made of population dynamics, intra- and interspecific interactions, niche segregation, species diversity, speciation, and distributional patterns. Appropriate readings from current literature will be required. This course is a survey of events, evolutionary patterns, and control mechanisms in early embryonic development of various classes of vertebrates, from fertilization through early organ formation.
Laboratory includes the study of living fish embryos.
Lab drawings are required. The major features of evolution variation, natural selection, adaptation and speciation and their significance to the origin and evolution of major plant and animal groups are investigated. A research paper and an oral presentation will be required.