Ecology. Cr. 4

Tom Rosburg, Drake University

UI: 00L:031

ISU: Ia LL 312I
UNI: 890:031

An introduction to the principles of ecology at the organismal, population, community, and ecosystem levels.  The course integrates lectures and field studies to examine factors controlling the distribution and abundance of plants and animals in native ecosystems.  General topics include the abiotic environment, responses of organisms to environment, population growth and demography, species interactions, community composition and structure, landscape ecology, trophic structure and productivity, and biogeochemical cycles.  Meets June 2 - June 27, 2008.

There is an emphasis on field ecology (what do ecologists do?), meaning that students will work on both class and small group research projects.  These require students to collect, analyze, and interpret data.  Both oral and written reports on projects will be assigned. Participation on a four-day, weekend field trip is mandatory.  Students need to bring a sleeping bag for this (tents are not necessary).  Appropriate field clothes and supplies are needed (rain gear, warm clothing, hat, sturdy boots, sunscreen, and insect repellent).  Old tennis shoes and clothing work well for wading in muddy wetlands and rivers. The required text for the course is Elements of Ecology (6th edition) by Robert L. Smith and Thomas M. Smith, ISBN: 0805348301. Older editions will suffice and might save some money.  Students should bring a field pack, statistical calculator, a spiral notebook, and at least one flash drive. Optional equipment (suggested but not necessary) includes camera, field guides, binoculars, a water bottle, and hip or chest waders. Field trip fee: $100.