BIOL W80 Ecology of the Amazon Rainforest

Participants in this course investigate the ecology, evolution, and natural history of the Amazon rainforest and are introduced to some of the customs and diverse cultures of the Ecuadorian people.

The Amazon River Basin is home to the largest rainforest on Earth. At roughly the size of the contiguous United States it is a repository of ecological goods and services not only for local tribes and communities, but also for the rest of the world. Daily fieldwork combines plant and animal identification with an investigation of ecological processes and an evaluation of human impacts. Particular attention will be given to discussions on cross-cultural issues and to our Biblical calling to be Earth keepers. Students travel to Ecuador to visit the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve and the Yasuni National Park. Daily excursions include camping, hiking, bird-watching, and canoeing.

Ecuador

Population

15,868,396

Climate

Tropical along coast, becoming cooler inland at higher elevations; tropical in Amazonian jungle lowlands.

Academics

This course may fulfill an elective in the Biology major.  This course will fulfill the CCE requirement.

Eligibility

Prerequisites: Biology 225 and permission of the instructor.

Cost

$3,900 (exact)