An introductory study of the biology, ecology, and taxonomy of fishes. The course emphasizes the evolution and diversity of fishes, including morphology, life history, behavior, and ecology. Lectures cover fishes from throughout the world; however, we will focus on fishes of North America and species that are found in Georgia.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students: Graduate students will prepare a short lecture on the biology and ecology of a species selected by the student. Graduate students will be graded with higher expectations.
Athena Title
Environmental Biology of Fish
Prerequisite
BIOL 1108-1108L
Semester Course Offered
Offered spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
Students will describe the basic biology and ecology of fresh and saltwater fishes.
Students will classify fish into major taxonomic groups; describe those groups.
Students will be able to explain how fish biology relates to ecology.
Students will discuss issues related to fish habitat and conservation.
Students will develop skills in finding, synthesizing and presenting information.
Topical Outline
Course Introduction
Form & Function
Systematics
Respiration & Circulation
Locomotion
Buoyancy
Thermoregulation
Osmoregulation
Senses
Reproduction
Signals & Communication
Feeding and Foraging
Introduction to Ecology
Biomes: Temperate Streams, Temp. Lakes & Reservoirs, Tropical Freshwater, Estuaries, Coastal Habitats, Tropical Reefs, Epipelagic Zone, Deep Sea, Polar Regions
