The World of Life: The Biosphere Course Syllabus

General Information

Welcome to The Biosphere. The intent of this course is to provide a general introduction to ecology. We will examine limits to the distribution and abundance of species, general population models, habitat selection, community theory, and nutrient cycling in ecosystems. We will also briefly discuss special topics that relate to environmental degradation. Most concepts will be elucidated through hands-on field labs. We will collect and analyze data, and exchange ideas and written work regarding our field investigations.
Grades will be based partially on each student's performance on the two exams listed in the course schedule, which will each be worth 100 points. Written work from the labs will total 100 points. In addition, each student will be required to write a scientific paper worth 200 points the topic of which will be discussed early in the course. Finally, each student will give a presentation on an environmental crisis and this will be worth 100 points.
The text must be purchased and the chapters listed on the schedule should be read prior to lecture. You will get much more out of each lecture/field session if you read the material that will be covered before coming. Any additional reading material will be provided.
Be prepared to go into the field for a part of each session. This means coming to class dressed for the field. Any specific attire needed for a particular field trip (e.g. bug dope, boots, etc.) will be announced beforehand. Otherwise, wear outdoor clothing and decent footwear for tromping around in the field.

Text

Krebs, C.J. 1988. The Message of Ecology. Harper and Row, New York.

Additional Reference Materials

Begon, Harper and Townsend. 1986. Ecology. Blackwell Scientific, Boston.

Begon, Harper and Townsend. 1990. Ecology: Individuals Populations, Communities. Blackwell Scientific, Boston.

Ricklefs, R.E. 1990. Ecology, Third Edition. W.H. Freeman & Co., New York.


Course Schedule

Week Lecture topic Readings in Krebs

1 Introduction, Species distribution and Chapter 1
abundance (introduced species)
Population Models Chapter 2

Habitat Selection Chapter 3
Exploitation and Management Chapter 4
2 Community Models: Resilience Chapter 5

Data Analysis in-class lab (after exam) Exam I, July 11

3 Stability Chapter 6
Biotic Interactions Chapter 7

Ecosystems: Nutrient Cycling Chapter 8
Dynamics, Stochasticity Chapter 9


4 Evolution and Ecology Chapter 10
Special topics TBA
Final Exam, Aug 2

Written Work

Due dates for write-ups for fieldwork will be announced.