BIOL 313 - Forest Canopy Ecophysiology

This course will explore of the physiological and ecological principles that govern the responses of forest trees to dynamic local, regional, and global environmental conditions. Importantly, study of forest ecosystems has historically taken place from the forest floor. Yet many of the processes that drive forest ecosystem function take place far above the ground in the complex intersection of branches that forms the forest canopy environment. This course will leverage recent advances for studying this unique and important environment, such as arborist-style tree climbing and drone-based technologies for sampling and surveying the canopy. Students will learn the underlying structure-function relationships and other biological theories that describe ecophysiological patterns and processes, as well as develop skills for asking important research questions and test hypotheses that advance this exciting and important field

Unit(s): 1
Group Distribution Requirement(s): Distribution Group III, Distribution Group III-Data Collection and Analysis
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 101 and BIOL 102
Instructional Method: Lecture-laboratory
Grading Mode: Letter grading (A-F)
Not offered: 2024-25
Group Distribution Learning Outcome(s):

Use and evaluate quantitative data or modeling, or use logical/mathematical reasoning to evaluate, test or prove statements.
Given a problem or question, formulate a hypothesis or conjecture, and design an experiment, collect data, or use mathematical reasoning to test or validate it.
Collect, interpret, and analyze data.