Field Ichthyology

Catalog description

Field Ichthyology is designed familiarize students with collection, observation, and field identification of Pennsylvania's fish fauna. Students will get hands-on instruction on how to collect, preserve, catalog, curate, and observe fishes. Additionally, students will learn how to gather pertinent in situ behavioral and distribution information on fishes and how to manage, record, and store field data. With the increasing emphasis on biodiversity and environmental monitoring, students need to be able to collect, manage, and store data as well as secure the chain of custody. This course is offered annually in partnership with agencies, research centers, and universities within Pennsylvania. Classes begin Sunday evening and extend until Friday afternoon. After the three-hour introductory class on Sunday evening, students meet each day for field collections/observations from 8am-5pm (weather dependent). In the evenings, students reassemble in the laboratory for additional activities and lectures. On one day, a series of night collections is made that extends until midnight. Students are responsible for their motel and food expenses during the week. All transportation to and from the collection sites is provided. The class will meet at least four times by appointment during the fall semester to enable students to process preserved samples that they collected.