Marine Mammalogy ((4 Credits))

Catalog description

Marine mammalogy is the scientific study of all orders of marine mammals, and their evolution, biology, ecology, and behavior. In this course, students will examine the taxonomic breadth and evolution of the marine mammal world. Students will also examine how the different anatomical structures and physiological processes across the taxa enable species to engage in ecological interactions within their immediate environment. They will investigate how different marine mammal species have adapted to select aspects of the marine habitat, including marine or aquatic systems, pelagic and inshore environments, and species found across marine biomes. Students will become familiar with the similarities and differences between closely related and distant marine species. The impact of human-animal interactions, marine mammal fisheries, and conservation has on specific species is also discussed. Prerequisites: Biology I with Lab ( BIOL 1200 ) and Biology II with Lab ( BIOL 1201 ) or equivalents.