Students will study the various morphologies of local limu species and learn basic limu hatchery and farming techniques such as tumble culture or attached cultivation methods. Hands-on experience in the cultivation, and instruction in the equipment necessary to monitor and manage the cultivation system will take place in the hands-on laboratory. Students are introduced to media preparation, sterile technique, various Limu cultivation methods, and stereomicroscopy. Students will learn seeding techniques for re-planting Limu in critical habitats. Additionally, some lab skills such as DNA extraction/sequencing, and lipid extractions will be covered.
Prerequisites
Completed or concurrently enrolled in HWST 155.
Course Outcomes
- Identify Hawaiian Limu through keying out species based on morphology
- Demonstrate the use of basic lab equipment to analyze culture systems such as stereomicroscopy and biomass measurements
- Use DNA sequencing to definitively identify Limu
- Apply knowledge to potential limu cultivation and conservation practices in hands on experiential learning.