Course Description
Limnology
is the study of
inland
waters, lakes, ponds, rivers and streams
. This course examines
physical, chemical
and biological
variables
that influence living organisms in these ecosystems. Both theoretical
and applied aspects of limnology will be covered.
Ecological theories
will be examined and studies on aquatic ecosystems, which have been
used to test these theories, will be discussed. The role of limnology
in the management
of water resources will be discussed throughout the
course. Several labs will be
field trips
followed by analysis and discussion of the data collected. This provides
the opportunity to ask questions in limnology, illustrate the variation
in aquatic habitats, demonstrate the practical aspects of limnology
(sampling methods, etc.) and the
methods of analyzing and writing up collected data.
Goals
- to enable students to comprehend fundamentals of limnology, including
physical, chemical and biological processes;
- to familiarize
students with limnological equipment and sampling procedures through hands-on
experience in laboratories;
- to develop
analytical skills used to assess common parameters indicative of water quality,
and the enumeration of biological communities in aquatic habitats;
- to develop
skills of critical thinking and writing required in the work force through
statistical analysis and write-up of results from laboratories;
- to inform
students of current issues and advances in limnology.
