BIOL 207 - Ecology

4 Credits: (3 lecture, 3 lab)

Course Description
Topics in this course include physiological, population, community, ecosystem, and behavioral ecology. Evolution and aspects of environmental biology will also be covered. Current models of evolutionary and ecological principles are examined as they pertain to the biological world. The laboratory experience is a combination of lab work and field experiences coupled with literature review. This is a course for biology majors and other interested students who satisfy the prerequisite. 

Note Fall semester only.

Prerequisite BIOL 120 or permission of instructor.

A. Explain the importance of ecology and technology to human society and the biosphere.

B. Discuss how processes of evolution lead to adaptation and speciation.

C. Explain how physical, biological, and behavioral factors influence an organism’s ability to grow and reproduce in its habitat.

D. Explain principles of population growth, population regulation, and population dynamics.

E. Describe how the environment coupled with species interactions can shape communities of species.

F. Describe the biogeochemical cycles, energy and nutrient flows, and feedback loops found in the biosphere.

G. Identify the causes and consequences of pollution on the biosphere and its effect upon the survival of all organisms.

H. Investigate ecological phenomena using laboratory and field experiences.

I. Analyze ecological data using peer review literature and statistical methodologies.

Content
A. Ecological importance

B. Evolutionary Ecology

C. Physiological Ecology

D. Population Ecology

E. Community Ecology

F. Ecosystem Ecology

G. Environmental Biology

H. Lab and field experiences

Student Evaluation
Evaluation will be in the form of exams, final, and a laboratory component that includes attendance, lab quizzes, and laboratory reports.