BIO 210 - Ecological Principles and Environmental Assessment

4 credit hours - Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory weekly; one term.
Examine the interrelationships between terrestrial and aquatic systems, focusing on field-based investigations. Apply environmental assessment techniques to determine physical, chemical and biological characteristics of a watershed and the factors affecting water quality. Use Geological Information Systems (GIS) as well as digital meters and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) in the field for data collection. Learn about the factors affecting ecosystem structure and function, including biogeochemical cycles, symbiotic relationships, and the impact of alien species. Investigate the unique characteristics and functions of different ecosystems, including a salt marsh, rocky shore, riparian buffer and coral reef. Lab fee $40.

Prerequisite(s): Any one of the following: BIO 101 or BIO 102 or BIO 103 or BIO 105 or BIO 107 or BIO 108 or permission of department chair. Eligibility for ENG 101 /ENG 101A and eligibility for any general education math.

Note: Typically offered at MC; fall term.

Course Outcomes:
1. Collect, analyze, and interpret information based on scientific reasoning and discipline-specific concepts.
2. Describe the key biotic and abiotic components of Maryland ecosystems, including coastal plain forest, freshwater stream, freshwater wetland, and salt marsh.
3. Explain key ecosystem processes, including energy flow, water and nutrient cycling, trophic interactions and succession.
4. Apply appropriate methods of field sampling, data analysis and laboratory analysis.
5. Communicate scientific conclusions based on data collection and analysis.