Objectives: This course surveys selected vertebrates that are indigenous to Pennsylvania. We focus on fish, amphibians, and reptiles owing to time limitations but other vertebrates (mammals and birds) are major members of ecological communities in the Commonwealth. This course examines the identification of various species of fish, amphibians, and reptiles, and their key life history features. The physical geography and ecological communities in Pennsylvania will be considered too.

Prerequisites:

Credit Value: 3

Contact Time: This course is only offered during pre-session.

Outcomes: Upon completion of the course the student should: have the ability to recognize indigenous species of amphibians, reptiles, and fish (common names and scientific names); have knowledge about key facets of biogeography, habitat util;ization, behavior, and ecophysiology for selected species of these vertebrates; and an understanding of the major habitat types and physical geography of Pennsylvania.

Assessment: Grades are acquired through an identification exam, life jistory exam, and project.

Lecture Schedule:

Laboratory Schedule:

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