Oceans cover more than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface and are our planet’s primary life support system.  This course examines adaptations and interactions of plants and animals in a variety of marine habitats.  Focal habitats include the photic zone of the open ocean, the deep-sea, subtidal and intertidal zones, estuaries, and coral reefs.  Emphasis is placed on the dominant organisms, food webs, and experimental studies conducted within each habitat.  Laboratories will emphasize diversity of species in marine habitats and will highlight local coastal ecosystems. Partnerships with other marine scientists around the country and globe will be leveraged for comparative study.  The course will include projects on phase shifts and alternative stable states, harmful algae blooms, coral reef resilience, seabird foraging, deep sea biodiversity, sea level rise, and local seafood markets.

This course has a required co-requisite laboratory - BISC 210L.

Units: 1.25

Max Enrollment: 14

Prerequisites: One of the following (BISC 111, BISC 111T, BISC 113, BISC 113Y) or ES 101; or permission of the instructor.

Instructor: Nickels, Selden

Distribution Requirements: LAB - Natural and Physical Sciences Laboratory; NPS - Natural and Physical Sciences

Typical Periods Offered: Fall

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall

Notes: