CBIO-450: Marine Ecosystems

Students will explore how marine systems are defined, the history of attitudes and values associated with marine resources, as well as marine ecosystem services. Marine ecosystems addressed will include the open ocean, coral reefs, mangroves, hydrothermal vents, intertidal rocky shorelines, salt marshes, and estuaries. We will also examine U.S. policies specific to marine systems as well as the establishment of marine protected areas and other human dimensions associated with marine ecosystem management to promote valuable ecosystem services, including the maintenance of biodiversity. The course also includes an optional field trip. Prerequisites: Successful completion (C- or better) of BIOL 370 and lab or permission of instructor. Spring odd years.