Topics for discussion include the strength and weaknesses of various sampling techniques, the role of disturbance events and succession on community structure, and the role of biological interactions as factors influencing the assembly of communities. Laboratory work emphasizes vegetation sampling methods and habitat type classification for plant communities in this region as well as methods of analyzing and reporting these data. The evolutionary development of vertebrate anatomy, fishes through mammals. Dissection of the shark, salamander, and cat plus demonstrations of other vertebrate types. Students generally start collections during the summer preceding class and are able to give emphasis to insect groups of special interest.
Laboratory includes field trips to collect and identify local species.
Insect collection required. Birds are used as examples of biological principles. The classification, identification, ecology, behavior, life histories, distribution, and adaptations of birds are covered. Two weekend field trips. Spring of odd-numbered years.