This introduction to the science of ecology focuses on the interrelations between individual organisms, their populations and communities. It begins by reviewing the factors that limit distributions and then considers population demography, life tables and managing harvested populations. After a review of the mathematical models to explain interspecific competition and predation, we review community ecology looking at succession, species diversity gradients, energy flow, biogeochemistry, and the role of predation, competition and disturbance in structuring communities. We conclude by considering the prospects for global change and the ecological processes that may shape these changes.

Students must also register in the mandatory lab component of the course.

Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102.