This course is designed to investigate patterns of diversity and abundance in naturally occurring biological communities with an in depth comparison of two distinct biomes. We investigate these patterns by examining habitats in the Arkansas region (Temperate Deciduous Forest) followed by a similar investigation of ecosystems in Costa Rica (Tropical Rainforest) or the American Southwest (Desert). In addition to our field studies, we read and discuss primary literature papers that deal with the functioning of biological communities and study numerous statistical techniques. It is hoped that this course gives students an appreciation for the diversity of life on Earth and demonstrates how biological organisms interact with their environment and with each other to create the ecosystems of the world.
This class meets three times a week, twice for field work and once for classroom discussion. The field trip at the end of the course is typically two weeks. The two field trip destinations are described below.
Costa Rica: First, we visit La Selva Biological Station located in the Caribbean lowlands. It is 1,600 hectares in size and is adjacent to Braulio Carillo National Park (50,000 hectares). Most of La Selva is lowland tropical rainforest characterized by high rainfall and warm temperatures throughout much of the year. Species diversity is very high. The second stop is Ecolodge at San Luis located in north-central Costa Rica. San Luis is situated in pre-montane rainforest adjacent to the Children’s International Rainforest. Also located nearby are the Monteverde and Santa Elena Cloud Forests.
Costa Rica Pictures
American Southwest: In the past we have visited Big Bend National Park in southwest Texas. This area provides a dramatic contrast to the forested areas of Arkansas. Big Bend is in the Chihuahuan Desert region. It is a very hot and dry environment typical of the southwest American deserts. The most characteristic plant is the Lechuguilla (Agave lechuguilla). However, Big Bend has a great diversity of plants and animals, fascinating geology, and starkly beautiful terrain. The variety of habitats in Big Bend is amazing. From the jungle-like flood plain of the Rio Grande, to the mercilessly dry Tornilla Flat, to the moist Oak-Pine forest of the Chisos, Big Bend never ceases to surprise the curious naturalist.
Big Bend Pictures
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