NRES 285: Aquatic Microbial Ecology

Fall 2008

Course Description:

Aquatic Microbial Ecology is a synthesis of many scientific disciplines including microbiology, molecular biology, limnology, ecology, and bioinformatics. Aquatic microbial ecology is closely linked to ecosystem function and environmental quality. Without microorganisms, our lakes and rivers would soon fill with layers of litter, they would cease to support fish and other wildlife, and natural and synthetic chemicals would accumulate to toxic levels in the environment.

This field course is intended for undergraduate students interested in environmental quality and conservation.

The course introduces students to the aquatic microbial populations and their role in aquatic ecosystems.

Course topics include:

• Methods for sampling aquatic microorganisms
• Molecular biology techniques (DNA extraction, PCR, DNA sequencing)
• Bioinformatics tools for interpretation of molecular biology data
• Experimental design
• Analysis of ecological data

The course includes a camping trip to Kickapoo State Park from September 5-7, 2008

Instructors:
Angela Kent
Anthony Yannarell

Class location and time:
M5 Turner Hall (basement)
1:00-4:50 PM Fridays

CRN: 49928