Shark Biology, Ecology & Conservation

Catalog description

This course explores the biology, ecology, behaviors and movements as studied with biologging tags of sharks. The class will also examine shark relationships to humans. Conservation of sharks and other elasmobranchs is crucial to ocean ecosystem function and requires accurate scientific knowledge of species in order to implement the best management practices. The course will explore sharks in a variety of ecosystems (Open sea, coastal ocean, benthic and reef habitats). Students will learn about biologging and field techniques, genomics, eDNA and do some explorations locally of active white shark research on going in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. A limited travel stipend may be available for students traveling to Hopkins Marine Station - located approximately 80 miles south of Stanford's main campus in Pacific Grove, CA. For information about spending a quarter in residence at Hopkins Marine Station please see here: https://hopkinsmarinestation.stanford.edu/stanford-hopkins-residence.