Degrees

BIO 110 Global Ecology Course Objectives:

1. To define science (and non-science) and review the scientific method from a biological perspective.
2. To review the characteristics of life and to evaluate the origin of life from creationistic vs. evolutionary points of view.
3. To present an historical account of and the biological evidence for the theory of evolution.
4. To present an overview of the levels of ecological organization (populations, communities, ecosystems).
5. To review population ecology and population growth from qualitative and quantitative perspectives.
6. To discuss how matter and energy flow through ecosystems and the structure and function of food chains (producers, consumers, decomposers).
7. To discuss nutrient cycling in ecosystems and to compare the major biogeochemical cycles.
8. To present the concept of ecological succession in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and review the major regional climax communities (biomes).
9. To consider the major biospheric problems of global warming, ozone depletion, and loss of biodiversity.