Fundamentals of Marine Biology

We will explore the fundamentals of marine biology, and in doing so, learn about the complex lifestyles of organisms whose home spans three quarters of our planet. We will take a process-driven approach, focusing first on the fundamentals: the interrelated processes of marine physiology, ecology, and evolution. What biological processes help organisms succeed in the marine environment? How do species traits vary throughout the different environments in the world’s oceans? How do gradual and rapid changes in the ocean environment alter the “rules of life” for marine species? As we build our understanding of these fundamentals throughout the course, we will use them as lenses to view, disentangle, and understand larger patterns in the oceans. In particular, we will focus on the diversity and distributions of biological functions, patterns of biodiversity, and the growing threats to marine life. Learning will be assessed via a first-third exam, a short paper, and a final presentation and paper. Ultimately, you will come away with a new understanding of the unique challenges and incredible opportunities that arise from life in saltwater.