Symbiosis, which encompasses the interactions and relationships that organisms have with each other, is a major source of evolutionary and ecological novelty. These interactions can be described as antagonistic, defensive, harmful, communal, opportunistic, beneficial, cooperative, or neutral. Symbiotic interactions often fall into one of three categories: commensalism, mutualism, and parasitism. This course explores these categories and interactions from ecological, physiological, and evolutionary lenses. Methods of instruction include lectures, primary literature seminars (in class and discussion board), and problem-based learning (quizzes, exams, presentations and assignments). Applies to the Ecology/Evolution major requirement.
Biology 111 (or 102 and 102L); or consent of instructor.