BIOL 303 - Chemical Ecology

Semester Offered: First Semester
Full Course
Credits: 4 credits
Attribute: 4NS

Organisms dispense and receive molecules as a form of invisible and soundless communication. This language is utilized to find homes, mates, and prey; to identify enemies, friends, and family. Chemicals are used to defend, offend, and cooperate. This course will examine how chemical communication mediates relationships between organisms and between organisms and their environment. Topics will be framed in the context of community ecology and animal behavior and will cover marine and terrestrial environments. An affinity for chemistry is not required; rather an appreciation for the chemistry that mediates ecological interactions is something we will work toward as a class.

Enrollment Limit: 20
Instructor: R. McDowell

Prerequisites & Notes: BIOL 200