Plant Biology: Ecuador: Natural History

Provides a hands-on exploration of the unique biodiversity found in the tropical Andes and the Galápagos Islands, while studying ideas of how this great diversity came to be, and examining conservation efforts employed to protect it. Prerequisites: BCOR 1400 and BCOR 1450 or BIOL 1400 and BIOL 1450; Instructor permission.

Spring break travel course; OIE GoAbroad App Deadline: 11/18/2024; In-country dates 3/8/2025-3/15/2025; Location: Ecuador; Instructor permission required; Program fee $3,321 minus $450 deposit; Airfare is additional; Tuition may be additional; For intermediate undergraduate students and PACE students. Colocated with PBIO 1890 for entry-level students; Prereqs enforced by the system: (BCOR 1400 and BCOR 1450) or (BIOL 1400 and BIOL 1450). Pre/post work required to cover the entire semester.

https://goabroad.uvm.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ViewProgramAngular&id=10877

This course is an unique immersion experience for students to develop a broad understanding of the natural history (geology, climate, biodiversity, biogeography) of the Galápagos Islands and the tropical Andes within the context of the following specific objectives: 1) Discover the rich biodiversity of the Andes and Galapagos Islands by learning to identify different species and contemplate their adaptations to the environment.2) Explore the biogeographic patterns of the flora and fauna in the Galápagos Islands through learning about historical geologic events, climate shifts, and the subsequent colonization of organisms in different ecosystems. 3) Examine Darwin’s ideas about natural selection, adaptation, and speciation through direct observation of the evolutionary phenomena witnessed in the Galápagos Islands. 4) Learn about current conservation efforts that will preserve the rich biodiversity and the country’s indigenous way of life.

Please note this is a travel-study course that requires an application, travel to Ecuador during spring break, and extensive time in the field in potentially extreme climates. Additional information about the course and the application can be found at UVM’s GoAbroad site.

We do not have exams, but students will be evaluated on participation and successful completion of assignments. Participation includes engagement in all online activities, pre-departure meetings, daily activities in Ecuador, nightly lectures in Ecuador, class discussions, and post-departure meetings.