BIOL-103: Humans and Their Environment
This course provides a general overview of global environmental problems which have accompanied the
evolution of the human species and identifies the principal areas in which critical decisions are now
required if humanity is to survive. Detailed case studies on a number of specific environmental topics
comparing Canada (a developed country) with Ecuador (a developing country) are presented. Note: This course
is intended for students that will not be majoring in ecology or environmental science. (Prerequisite: None)
BIOL-108: Organisms in Their Environment
From the origin of life on earth through the evolution of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, this
course examines the diversity of life on earth. Using a phyletic approach to classification, the major
taxonomic groups of organisms are introduced. These include prokaryotes, numerous protists, fungi, plants
and animals. Features that adapt these organisms to their environment are emphasized using Darwinian evolution
as the underlying principle. (Prerequisite: Biology 30 or equivalent)
BIOL-365: Tropical Rainforest Ecology
This course provides an introduction to the biodiversity and ecology of organisms found in the world's
most biologically rich ecosystem, the tropical rainforest. The physical and biotic forces that contribute
to this incredible diversity are investigated, and the most serious threats to the conservation of the tropical
rainforest ecosystem are explored. The course includes a field trip to the Tiputini Biodiversity Station in the
lowland rainforest of eastern Ecuador, a visit to a high-elevation cloud forest in the Andes, and travel to other
biological and cultural sites in Ecuador. (Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in BIOL-208 and consent of the department)
BIOL-422: Methods in Experimental Ecology
This is a project based course, using current ecological methods with emphasis on collection and analysis of
quantitative data. This course develops students’ understanding of ecological theory and application of
experimental methods. Skills in the analysis and presentation of data are developed through work in a
laboratory or field-based research setting. Projects vary and are announced prior to registration.
Note: This course may be taken up to two times, provided the course project is different.
(Prerequisite: Minimum grade of B- in BIOL-208 and in BIOL-337, and at least one of: BIOL-310, BIOL-312,
BIOL-314, BIOL-365, BIOL-367, or BIOL-371)
BIOL-495: The Ecology of Mating Systems
Sexual selection, or the selection that arises due to competition for mates, drives the evolution of an
amazing diversity of adaptations, from the extraordinary mating display of male sage grouse, to the
hypervariable colouration of male guppies, to the gaudy abdominal sacks and frilled legs of female
dance flies. Through a combination of lectures, peer-driven paper discussions, student presentations
and writing assignments, this course will examine the many ways in which the environment, both physical
and social, influences which sex competes for mates and which is more choosy, the behavioural and
morphological adaptations by which individuals compete, and whether the reproductive interests of both
sexes are in conflict. (Prerequisite: Minimum grade of B- in any 300-level ecology-stream biology class)
BIOL-498: Independent Research
In this course, students plan, conduct, and communicate the results of an independent research project
in Biological Sciences under the direction of a faculty supervisor. Registration will be contingent on the
student having made prior arrangements with a faculty member willing to supervise the research. Note: This
course is intended for students in the final year of their degree. This course may be taken up to two times.
(Prerequisite: Minimum grade of B- in 300-level, Biological Sciences relevant to the proposed research)
ZOOL-250: Survey of the Invertebrates
This course explores the evolution and ecological roles of major invertebrate phyla. The diversity of body forms
and life histories of invertebrates and protozoans are discussed. Various ecological niches of invertebrates are
related to functional anatomy. The laboratory displays the diversity and functional anatomy of invertebrates
using live and preserved specimens and includes an optional field trip to a coastal area.
(Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in BIOL-108)
ZOOL-425: Introductory Entomology
Insects are the most successful animals on Earth. This course examines their evolutionary history
and the adaptations that have led to their success. Insect morphological features are examined as they
relate to lifecycle, behaviours, and ecology to explain how insects can be dominant in diverse ecological
situations. The economic impact of insects is examined. The laboratory emphasizes methods of collecting,
preparing, and identifying insect groups. (Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C- in ZOOL-250)
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