BIOSM 3450

Marine Mammal Biology

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2021-2022.

Introduction to the biology and conservation of the whales and seals, with a particular focus on species of the Gulf of Maine. Lectures will examine many facets of marine mammal science including: taxonomy and species diversity, morphological and physiological adaptations for life in the sea, foraging ecology and behavior, reproductive cycles, bioacoustics, anthropogenic interactions, and management of threatened species. Land and open-water observations of whale and seal behavior will give students hands-on opportunities to study marine mammals in the field. Laboratory work, including dissections, may also occur pending the availability of samples.

When Offered Summer.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: one semester of college-level biology, physiology and/or ecology or equivalent, e.g. BIOEE 1780/BIOSM 1780; BIOEE 1610/BIOSM 1610; BIOG 1440, or similar.

Distribution Category (PBS-AS, BIO-AS)

• Students can identify and explain morphological and physiological adaptations to life in seawater that are specific to marine mammals.
• Students can discuss the evolutionary history of cetacean and pinniped marine mammals.
• Students can describe the ecology of the Gulf of Maine based on seasonal patterns of productivity and resource availability.
• Students can explain important aspects of the biology and ecology of marine mammals, including foraging habits and reproductive cycles of local species.
• Students can identify the anthropogenic threats faced by marine mammals, including historic exploitation and current sources of mortality from human interactions.
• Students can describe current conservation issues and management efforts for local marine mammal species.

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