Identification of major groups and common species of fishes in Hawai‘i with emphasis on shore fishes. Topics include morphology, adaptation, physiology, phylogenetic relationships, feeding relationships, behavior, ecology, fishing methods and Hawaiian use of fishes. Lecture/laboratory/field trip course (two required field tips on Saturdays).
Recommended Preparation
Ability to swim.
Course Outcomes
- Know the names and characteristics of the major families of Hawaiian fishes.
- Learn how to identify Hawaiian fishes and know the common names, Hawaiian names, and scientific names of common Hawaiian fish species.
- Have an understanding of the biology of fishes in general, including the following topics: history of science and ichthyology, fish evolution and systematics, functional morphology, locomotion and buoyancy, respiration, circulation, thermal regulation, feeding relationships, osmoregulation and excretion, reproduction, behavior and communication, environmental biology, ecological relationships, and zoogeography.
- Have an understanding of the importance of fish to human society especially including the importance of fish to ancient Hawaiian culture, ancient and modern fishing methods, and commercial fisheries in Hawaii and elsewhere.
- Be able to observe, collect, preserve and describe Hawaiian fisheries in their natural habitats.