3.00 Credits
An introduction to the biology and ecology of reef-building corals and coral reefs. Topics to be covered include coral ecology (nutrition, reproduction, population structure, and distributions), taxonomy and systematics, biogeography and reef-building processes. The course will also cover natural and human induced disturbances on coral reefs and discuss exploitation and coral reef management options. NOTE: Please refer to the appropriate academic catalog for additional course information concerning prerequisites, co-requisites and course restrictions.