Time Schedule:
Julian D. Olden
FISH 497
Seattle Campus
One-time offerings of topics in fisheries by resident or visiting faculty.
Class description
The objective of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the patterns, drivers and consequences of animal invasions in freshwater, estuary and marine ecosystems. We will accomplish this through a combination of lectures that will examine various elements of aquatic invasions followed by the discussion of a series of case studies. The first part of the course will provide an overview of the problem, focusing on global pathways and patterns of aquatic invaders in freshwater and marine ecosystems. Particular attention will be placed on the United States and the ecological, evolutionary and economic impacts of aquatic invaders. The second part of the course will explore the entire invasion process, from initial introduction to a foreign area, to the establishment of a self-sustaining population and integration into native communities. These lectures will focus on the underlying theory and empirical evidence for each invasion stage illustrated through a number of case studies. The third part of the course will focus on the management approaches needed to prevent, control and eradicate invasive species, including current state and federal legislation for invasive species. Throughout the course attention will be paid to invasive species and their effects in the aquatic ecosystems throughout the globe and the Pacific Northwest.
Student learning goals
As a result of this course, students will have a strong understanding of the patterns, processes and consequences of species invasions in aquatic systems.
General method of instruction
Lectures: This course will consist of two 50-minute lectures per week. Lectures will emphasize main concepts that address aquatic species invasions, illustrated with examples from freshwater and marine ecosystems.
Recommended preparation
Either BIOL 162 or BIOL 180
Class assignments and grading
Exams: There will be two exams - a mid-term and a final. They will cover the assigned reading and material covered in lecture. The 50-minute midterm exam and 2-hour final exam will consist of short essays and multiple choices.
Final Report: A portion of your grade is based on a final written report. In order to successfully complete the final report you will need to understand the material presented in lecture and discussion group. Detailed instructions will be given at the beginning of the course.
