BIOL 5540 - Aquatic Biology (with Lab)

Goals: To understand the differences and similarities among the various freshwater aquatic ecosystems (lakes, streams, wetlands), and to understand the ecological principles and interactions that govern the distribution and abundance of aquatic organisms. To develop computer skills and writing skills.

Content: Lake origins; glacial history of Minnesota; water chemistry; aquatic ecosystem structure; food web interactions; survey of important aquatic organisms; linkages among terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems; human impacts on aquatic environments (e.g., eutrophication, acidification). Laboratories will include field studies of aquatic environments, case studies, and controlled laboratory experiments.

Taught: Alternate years, fall term

Prerequisites: BIOL 1510, 1520, and any one 3000-level biology elective (grades of C- or better)

Note: Students must concurrently register for a lecture and a corresponding 0-credit lab section of this course.

Credits: 4