BIOSM 3330

Marine Parasitology and Disease

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2023-2024.

This course will focus on one of the most diverse and fascinating groups of marine organisms- parasites. We will explore marine parasites and pathogens at multiple levels, including: (1) the evolutionary perspective with an emphasis on co-evolutionary relationships; (2) parasitic diseases and life cycles (from simple to complex); (3) taxonomic and phylogenetic understanding of parasite and host groups (with a focus on metazoan parasites and hosts); (4) ecological implications of parasitism in marine systems—at the population, community, and ecosystem levels; and (5) the effects of human-induced global change on parasitism in marine communities.

When Offered Summer.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: at least one college-level introductory course in evolutionary or ecological biology, e.g. BIOEE 1780/BIOSM 1780, or BIOEE 1610/BIOSM 1610 or similar.

Distribution Category (BIO-AS, PBS-AS)
Course Attribute (CU-SBY)

Comments Please contact Shoals Marine Lab to assist with enrollment. Students will live at Shoals Marine Lab, Appledore Island, ME, during this course.

• Students will be able to: Apply working knowledge of fundamental facts, concepts, and theories about marine parasitology and disease.
• Determine evolutionary and ecological importance of parasites/pathogens in marine systems.
• Identify taxa of marine parasites using scientific keys and descriptions.
• Determine host and parasite diversity in the local marine environment.
• Prepare microscopes and other equipment used for observing and identifying parasites.
• Empirically test ideas using scientific evidence collected from surrounding ecosystems.
• Organize knowledge of marine parasitology and disease and effectively communicate concepts to peers.

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