Time Schedule:
Leila M. Porter
BIO A 584
Seattle Campus
Seminar dealing with various aspects of ecology and adaptation. Topics vary each quarter.
Class description
This seminar will focus on the feeding adaptations and foraging strategies of non-human primates. We will examine the different kinds of foods that primates eat and the problems and benefits that these foods present for primates. We will further look at the anatomical and behavioral adaptations for foraging and feeding that primates have evolved in order to successfully live in their environments. Although we will focus on the adapatations of living primate species, we will also discuss some other animals, and some fossil species.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Lecture with class discussion, detailed review of research articles, and group problem solving activities.
Recommended preparation
The student should have a basic knowledge of the Primate order, should have had BIOA 370 (or equivalent). Should be comfortable reading original research articles, doing detailed literature searches, and have experience writing papers.
Class assignments and grading
Readings from original research articles and the book “On the Move: How and Why Animals Travel in Groups”. Each student is expected to be able to evaluate the reading material and formulate criticisms of methods, and interpretation of results. Each student will conduct their own literature review of the foraging and feeding strategies of one primate species, and write a final paper on that species.
Grades will be based on short critical reviews of readings and a final paper.
