Biology 431 - Field Biology and Natural History of Amphibians of the Pacific Northwest
Evening field trips every other week will be taken to a variety of habitats to study the diversity and natural history of a fascinating group of animals. On alternate weeks students will lead discussions on the evolution of life history strategies and conservation in amphibians.
This course has 2 goals. First, we will become familiar with species of amphibians of the region, some of which are endemic and/or endangered and in the process learn a variety of field techniques. Second, we will use these species and the current literature associated with them to engage in group discussions of issues in ecology, evolution, and conservation biology. The course will include numerous evening field trips; regular discussion groups; and the presentation of several formal seminars by each participant. Discussions of how to read the primary literature, participate in discussions, and give seminars will also be emphasized. A prior course in population biology, animal behavior, or plant evolution is required.
Recommended Texts -
Recommended Guides -
Corkran, C. C. and C. Thoms. 1996. Amphibians of Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia. Lone Pine.
Leonard, W. P. et al. 1993. Amphibians of Washington and Oregon, Seattle Audubon Society
Nussbaum, R. A. 1983. Amphibians and Reptiles of the Pacific Northwest, Univ. Press of Idaho
Meeting Time -The class will meet on non-field trip nights Tuesdays between 6:00 and 8:00 PM in B200A. On field trip nights we will take off on Tuesdays at 6:00 and return by 11:00 PM.
The course is taught by Robert H. Kaplan.
Recommended Links -
A Key to the Anuran Tadpoles of the United States and Canada
Maintained by the Reed College Biology Department
Last Modified 08/30/06
Questions/Comments to Robert.Kaplan@directory.reed.edu