Investigates the physiological processes responsible for maintaining homeostasis in fishes. Focuses on the function and regulation of the major organ systems during stress and environmental adaptation. Topics include reproduction, osmoregulation, digestion, endocrinology, and sensory perception.

Independent study in various areas including but not limited to animal behavior, developmental biology, ecology, endocrinology, evolution, ichthyology, genetics, history of biology, invertebrate biology, neurobiology and behavior, protozoology, teaching practices, underwater research, vertebrate biology, and biological techniques. Course sections for advanced work, individual or group seminar. May include reading, laboratory work, organized seminars, and conferences. Prereq: permission of instructor needed. Writing intensive.

Working under the direction of a faculty sponsor, the student plans and carries out independent research resulting in a written thesis. Limited to students entering their senior year; required for students in the honors program or working toward honors-in-major. Prereq: permission. A two-semester sequence. 2-4 credits each semester; 8 credits maximum. IA (continuous grading) given at the end of the first semester. Writing intensive.

Behavioral adaptations of animals to their environment including the evolution of behavior and behavioral genetics; foraging and competition for resources; reproductive ecology, mating systems and parental care; and the evolution of cooperative behavior. Examples include both vertebrates and invertebrates. Emphasis is on critical understanding of concepts as exhibited in oral and written exercises. Students conduct independent investigations. Prereq: animal behavior or ecology or evolution course. Lab. (Offered in alternate years.)