BIOL 334 - Natural History of Ventura County

Units: 3
Two hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week
Prerequisite: Junior Standing or Consent of Instructor
This course will explore the biota and ecosystems of Ventura County. Local ecosystems include chaparral, marine, stream, desert, mountain and island. Topics covered will be classification and diversity of conspicuous regional flora and fauna in the field and laboratory, basic ecological and evolutionary principles of botanical and zoological classification, ecosystem diversity and function. Indigenous cultural and colonial era use of biotic resources, history of scientific exploration of the region, conservation and preservation issues, restoration of natural habitats, adaptation, life history and physiology of resident organisms will also be covered. Field trips will be required.
GenEd: B2, UDIGE