BIOS39F

This course is designed to build particular skills in an area of biology, with a general aim of preparing students for summer internships and careers in the biological sciences. This version of the course focuses on green crabs, a marine invasive species that is causing environmental and economic harm in New England. Students learn monitoring field methods, including transect- and quadrat-based estimates for population size, site characterization methods, species identification, genetic assays to establish the population affinity of crabs, and how to recognize crab phenology. Topics may include trap-based subsampling, invasive species control methods, state and regional fisheries policy, and culinary use of this species. The course is intended for students majoring in biology but may be relevant to students in biochemistry, neuroscience, earth and climate sciences, or environmental studies, or preparing for health-related careers.