BIOL 200 provides an overview of the biology and ecology of stony corals and their role as foundation species for coral reef ecosystems, with specific emphasis on species found in and around the Hawaiian Islands, and their relevance to Hawaiian culture. The biology and ecological roles of algae, invertebrates and fishes found in coral reef ecosystems will be surveyed. Connectivity with associated tropical nearshore habitats, reef restoration efforts, conservation, and human impacts including climate change will also be highlighted, with emphasis on local efforts and impacts.
Course Outcomes
- Apply the process of science to understand current research on coral reef ecosystems.
- Evaluate the significance of coral reefs through Western and Hawaiian ways of knowing about the natural world.
- Describe the biology, morphology, growth, reproduction, and ecology of stony corals.
- Describe the ecological relationships among the living components of coral reef ecosystems.
- Identify different types of reef formations, the processes that create and shape them and the physical and chemical parameters that define their distribution patterns around the world.
- Describe coral reef ecosystem resources, human impacts and conservation efforts, with emphasis on Hawai‘i and Pacific Island Nations.