BIO 390 Special Topics in Biology
This seminar course will teach students skills needed to read and critically analyze original journal articles. Some lectures will be given, but the bulk of the course will consist of student-led discussions and analysis of scientific papers. Students will improve their communication skills by discussing papers and leading discussions, by writing a research paper and peer-editing, and by preparing oral presentations as an aid for leading discussions. May be taken more than once for credit as the topics will differ each semester, but can only be used to fulfill one of the requirements for the Biology major. Cannot be used to fill the Biology requirement of the Biochemistry major.
Insect Ecology
This course provides an overview of insect ecology from an evolutionary perspective focusing on factors influencing the diversity, distribution, and abundance of insects in natural and managed ecosystems. We will investigate fundamental mechanisms underlying interactions between insects and their abiotic and biotic environment at the molecular, cellular, organismal, population, community, and ecosystem levels. Current trends in ecological entomology research will be explored and the role of insects as model systems in the development of general ecological and evolutionary principles will be highlighted. Applications include lessons for/from pest management, biological control, vector control, and biodiversity management.
Prerequisite
One 200- or 300-level Biology course.