Island Ecology and Evolution

The exploration of islands and investigations of their flora and fauna have been extremely important in expanding our understanding of evolution. Now, many island ecosystems are threatened by human activities. In particular, the introduction of invasive species has had many negative impacts on island biodiversity. This upper-division science program will look at the ecology and biogeography of islands through lectures, readings, student presentations, laboratory work, and fieldwork. Seminar topics taken from the primary scientific literature, and specific aspects of island ecology, particularly with regards to introduced species, will be explored. We will study the science of evolution at organismal, molecular, and ecological levels.

During the second week of the quarter, we will have a multi-day field trip to Hope Island State Park in southern Puget Sound, where we will carry out a BioBlitz (a comprehensive assessment of biodiversity at various levels) and conduct surveys of plant biodiversity. 

Laboratories will include learning molecular techniques of DNA barcoding and examining the theory of island gigantism. Students will develop scientific communication and research skills including writing lab reports and oral presentations. Students will give weekly presentations on topics related to islands, introduced species, and ecological concepts. In addition, students will improve their scientific writing skills through writing assignments that include on-line peer review. Student learning will be assessed based on the quality and completeness of oral presentations and written work, peer review of writing assignments, and a take-home examination.

Completion of the required prerequisites is mandatory and will be verified the first day of class. If you have any questions, please contact the faculty.