Ichthyology

Catalog description

This course will introduce students to Ichthyology, the study of fishes. The goal of this course is to explore the diversity, biology and ecology of fishes from an evolutionary perspective. Topics covered include, the history of Ichthyology, phylogenic relationships and taxonomic diversity of fishes, morphology, physiology, ecology, evolution and conservation of fishes. The laboratory portion of the course expands upon material presented in lecture and includes field trips to local waters. The labs off hands-on experience in learning about, identifying major orders, families, genera and species of fishes with particular emphasis on species occurring in freshwater and brackish water habitats in Virginia. 3 lecture and one 3-hour lab periods. Course fee: $30. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 251 with minimum grade of C- or permission of instructor Corequisite(s): None