Introduction to Aquatic Ecosystems
NRE 311 / Environ 311
Credits: 4
Prerequisites: Introductory Biology/Ecology.

Introduces fundamental physical/chemical/biological concepts and basic techniques necessary for the study of aquatic ecosystems. Covers physical-chemical processes, overview of aquatic fauna and flora, and surveys major types of aquatic ecosystems including rivers and streams, lakes, wetlands, oceans. Interactions between the hydrological cycle and the landscape provide the basic theme around which ecosystem presentations are organized. Laboratory sections present basic taxonomic materials during the first half of the course; during later half lab sessions will focus on field trips to representative environments and on the collection of biological specimens for required individual collections.