BIOL 431 - Ichthyology

Class Hours: 3
Lab/Discussion: 3
Credits: 3

Prerequisite: BIOL 103 or BIOL 201 and Sophomore status
Description: Introduces the biology, taxonomy, natural history, and conservation of freshwater and marine fishes. Examines the morphological and physiological adaptations that have allowed fish, the most diverse group of vertebrates, to thrive across a wide array of environments throughout the globe. Lab emphasizes field collection and identification of fish found in Pennsylvania and the Great Lakes region, but select representatives from other families are also covered. Critically evaluates published scientific papers related to fish biology, physiology, and evolution.