Are you interested in aquatic biology? Get to know a whole new world!! This field class will teach participants to: 1) sample algae by taking field trips to some interesting aquatic habitats, 2) identify algae (useful skill for many aquatic positions), 3) learn the characteristics of ecology of major algal groups, 4) learn how to use algae to assess environmental problems, and 5) learn how to make permanent slides for your collection.

This course will look at the taxonomy and ecology of Mid-west algae with an emphasis on some important nuisance taxa. The lecture component of the class will cover the distinctions of the major algal groups and their role in the ecosystems. In the field component of the class, we will visit a variety of local aquatic habitats to learn collections techniques. And back in the lab we will examine our sample using proper microscope techniques and identify our collected specimens with the use of taxonomic keys. Microscopes, collecting equipment, reference books and taxonomic keys will be provided to the students.