On-site investigations of the ecology and biogeography of Andean mountain forests and Patagonian steppe and studies of the ecology of several marine vertebrate species at the Atlantic coast. Students will read and present original literature, meet with local scientists at their study sites, and develop hypotheses that could be tested in the ecosystems we visit. (Not offered 2024-25).

Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing, Organismal Biology and Ecology 208, Organismal Biology and Ecology 389 (half-block), and consent of instructor. (taught in Patagonia) Extra Expense.

1 to 2 units

Previously Featured Offering

Patagonian Ecology and Biogeography

Jan. 2018

Patagonian Ecology and Biogeography explores the ecosystem of Patagonia, including the climate, how plant and animal species arrived in this unusual place, Patagonia and their biogeographic relationships, and the factors that account for the incredible abundance of sea life off the Patagonian coast.

This on-campus half block prepares students for the linked block 5 course in Patagonia, where we discuss primary literature done at the sites we visit, talk with researchers who did the research, and propose the next investigations that will advance our knowledge about these ecosystems. During the half block, students learn about the climate of Patagonia, how plant and animal species arrived in this unusual place, Patagonia and their biogeographic relationships, and the factors that account for the incredible abundance of sea life off the Patagonian coast. Students also read and discuss numerous scientific papers and prepare to lead discussions on several topics in Patagonia.

No offerings are currently scheduled.