BIO 459
Freshwater Ecology
Spring, 2008
4 credits
Lecture T/Th
Lab Th
This course will focus on integrating principles of freshwater ecology as a means of gaining insight into aquatic organisms, freshwater habitats, and ecosystem productivity. Organisms inhabiting lakes, ponds, rivers, streams and estuaries will be studied at the population, community, and ecosystem levels.
The goal of this course is to provide students with a thorough understanding of: 1) the physical, chemical, and biological organization of aquatic ecosystems, 2) current theories in freshwater ecology, and 3) lab and field methods for conducting aquatic studies. Students will design and conduct an independent research project, partake in field and laboratory explorations, and participate in lectures and student-led discussions. One weekend field trip is required.
Prerequisites: BIO 124, CHEM 131 and CHEM 132
Instructor: Dr. Christine May (maycl@jmu.edu)
