Ecology of Southern California Deserts

Catalog description

Units: 2 Hours: 54 (27 lecture, 27 laboratory) Explore and study the "hot" deserts of southern California, such as the Mojave, Sonoran/Colorado, or other arid locations, discovering the unique animals and plants which are adapted to these extreme and beautiful environments. Deserts compared to nearby coastal habitats or the desert ecosystems in Arizona (depending on local conditions). California study sites visited may include Joshua Tree National Park, Mojave Desert, Salton Sea, and Anza-Borrego State Park. Focus on the interdependency between the physical environments and the biological inhabitants that live there. This class requires the ability to hike moderate distances on uneven ground. This class will involve camping in either developed campsites or in undeveloped wilderness areas. (CSU)