Ecology

Ecology is the science of the relationship of living things to their living and nonliving environments. While providing the underpinnings for environmentalism, ecology exists independently as a basic science. This course will introduce the student to the major concepts of ecology: the flow of energy and cycling of nutrients through ecosystems, the regulation of population size, the ways in which species are grouped together to form natural communities, and the factors that contribute to the stability of natural systems. In addition to the fundamental principles, we will explore the observational and experimental support for these ideas, both qualitative and quantitative. These methods and concepts will help students evaluate such current issues as biodiversity, global warming, food production, and energy use. Classes will be augmented by field trips.