ENST259: Coral Reef Ecology and Management

Time: Wednesdays, 5:00 - 6:00 PM

Place: Philips 328

Description:

This is a one-hour class that is a combination of lecture, reading of primary material and experiential learning. The lectures will describe key physical and chemical characteristics of the coral reef environment and will also cover a broad range of relevant topics in coral reef ecology. Part of the course will also familiarize students with the identification of the principal corals and fishes found in the Caribbean. A major goal of this class is to educate students about the various threats to coral reefs around the world and explore management options that can offer some protection to coral reef communities.

The Institute for the Environment places a strong emphasis on field-based learning. We run a number of semester-long field site programs, so this is intended at one level to be an introduction to field based learning, and we hope students will consider engaging in further such experiences in the future.

Finally, we find it important to nurture a strong sense of community amongst our students, so we hope this experience will help build strong bonds of camaraderie and contribute to the intellectual environment within the Institute.

This course has a non-refundable $150 course fee. See the Trip Costs page for a detailed description of costs associated with the trip to St. John, and make sure you review the Trip Description and Preparation page for all the important details about the trip.

Grading:

Participation in class lectures - 10%
Natural history group presentation - 30%
Species list of reef fishes - 30%
Final Exam - 30%

Required readings:

1. Strykowski, Joe and Bonem, Rena. Palaces Under the Sea: A Guide to Understanding the Coral Reef Environment. Star Thrower Foundation. Crystal River, FL, 1993.
2. Tackett, Denise Nielsen and Tackett, Larry. Reef Life: Natural History and Behaviors of Marine Fishes and Invertebrates T.F.H. Publications, Neptune City, NJ, 2002.