BIO 211 - Estuarine and Marine Biology

4 credit hours - Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory weekly; one term.
Investigate the biology and ecology of estuaries and the nearshore marine environment, with a special focus on Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Study the interrelationships between the physical environment and the biodiversity observed in the wide array of aquatic habitats found in estuaries and along the coast. Learn how to sample, monitor, and identify the important species of these habitats through field collections and laboratory evaluation. Examine how humans affect estuarine and marine organisms and habitats. Requires one Saturday research field trip. Lab fee $60.

Prerequisite(s): 1. At least one of the following biology courses: BIO 101 , BIO 103 , BIO 104 , BIO 104H , BIO 105 , BIO 107 , BIO 107H , or BIO 122 .

2. Eligibility for ENG 101 /ENG 101A .

3. At least one of the following: eligibility for any general education math, a score of 27 or better on the Arithmetic Placement Test, or a grade of “B” or better in MAT 005. 

Location(s) Typically Offered: Arnold Main Campus (MC)

Course Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. Analyze the major chemical, physical, and microbial characteristics of estuaries and nearshore marine environments.
2. Distinguish the features of multiple important estuarine and marine habitats.
3. Assess the complex interrelationships among estuarine and marine organisms.
4. Design and conduct research investigating estuarine or marine biology.
5. Assess the effects humans have had on estuarine and marine environments, including through climate change and habitat loss.