Tropical Marine Ecology

Catalog description

Tropical marine ecology explores the diversity and function of tropical marine organisms and ecosystems. Students will learn about the composition and functions of various coastal and marine ecosystems found in the tropics, including coral reefs, seagrass meadows, mangroves, salt marshes, and tidepools. A major focus of this course will be on coral reefs, which are among the most biodiverse and productive ecosystems in the ocean. The course will also explore the physical and biological processes that shape life in tropical marine ecosystems, as well as how these ecosystems both support and are affected by human activities from the local to global level. Weekly lectures will provide a background overview of each topic and will be followed by small group discussions that explore a subject in depth. Finally, students will have the opportunity to explore the intersection of their own interests and background with tropical marine ecology by developing an oral presentation and research paper on a topic of their choosing. The classroom component will be complemented by a field expedition to the island of Bermuda, where students will observe these tropical marine ecosystems firsthand and compare the biodiversity of the flora and fauna across the many different coastal and marine habitats of Bermuda. While in Bermuda, students will also participate in restoration activities to help protect native species and visit cultural sites that explore the link between the marine ecosystems of the island and the economy and culture of the local community.