Biology 288: Equatorial Biology
Interim 2009
Ecuador, South America

Professor: Steve Freedberg, Biology, freedber@stolaf.edu, x3102
Major Credit: Biology and Environmental Studies elective credit
Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126 or Environmental Studies 137 or permission of instructor
Cost: $4,650
Maximum Enrollment: 19 students

Course Description

Equatorial Biology offers intensive field-biology experiences within three equatorial New World environments: the Amazon rainforest, the High Andes cloud forests and the Galapagos Islands . We will compare the rich biodiversity of each area, focusing on the adaptations and natural history of key species. We will also consider the influence of human impact, both by indigenous and non-indigenous people, in these areas. Preparation for class requires readings from texts and primary literature concerning ecological and evolutionary biology specific to each region, as well background on the indigenous culture, agricultural practices and conservation. Based in Quito , the course consists of field trips, projects and discussions, with time for journaling, reading and self-exploration.

Course Objectives

The following are expectations of students in the course:

•  To learn the key features of the three equatorial New World environments including their prominent flora, fauna, and physical characteristics
•  To learn the adaptations and life histories of some of the important plants and animals of these New World environments
•  To ask scientific questions about these environments and answer them as much as possible
•  To observe and reflect on the impact of indigenous and non-indigenous peoples on these environments
•  To learn from local people as much as possible about their culture and environment
•  To examine and reflect on the complexities of balancing conservation, agriculture and sustainable development in Ecuador
•  To be open to the beauty and wonder of these three New World environments

Most of the fieldwork will be observational because we want to reduce our impact on natural habitats and because of restrictions on use of areas that we will visit.

Required Texts (tentative):

Jackson , M. 1994. Galapagos: A Natural History. University of Calgary Press
Kricher, J. 1999. A Neotropical Companion: An Introduction to the Animals, Plants, and Ecosystems of the New World Tropics (2 nd ed.). Princeton University Press.

Optional text:
Weiner, J. 1995. The Beak of the Finch: A Story of Evolution in Our Time. Vintage Press.

Assignments:

Student evaluations will be based on field projects, papers, participation in discussion and class activities, and a final exam. Each student is expected to attend and participate in all planned events, from lectures to field trips to group discussions, some of which will be held in the evening. Students will take turns leading discussions on topics from the readings.

Students will participate in observational research projects in the Galapagos and in the rainforest. Results of the projects will be presented to the class. Students will also be asked to write one paper and one research proposal on topics of interest, one based on the Galapagos and one based on the rainforest. Students will type their papers and take a final exam in Quito at the end of January.

Grading Scheme

Paper 20%
Proposal 20%
Projects 10%
General Participation 25%
Final Exam 25%

January 2009 Itinerary – tentative

Jan 5 fly to Quito
Jan 7-12 Amazonian rainforest
Jan 13-14 High elevation site
Jan 15-20 fly to Galapagos Islands
Jan 21-27 Quito, cloud forest site
Jan 28-29 Quito, final exam
Jan 30 return to U.S.A.

Above information is valid as of April 2008 and may change as planning takes place and new information becomes available.

Please note: a supplemental application is required along with the regular Interim application. The form is available from the instructor or the web site.