This
course provides an in-depth survey of the geography, natural history
and ecology of major terrestrial ecosystems in the tropics. Its
goal is to provide the scientific background necessary for effective
conservation of terrestrial ecosystems. We spend three weeks immersed
in the riches of the Amazon rain forest, at the world-famous Tiputini
Biodiversity Station. We also tour Ceiba conservation projects in the
highly endangered coastal dry forest, and orchid-rich cloud forest of
the Andes (see Where We Go). Because
conversion of forested land for food production is an inevitable threat
to terrestrial ecosystems, we visit examples of dominant land uses such
as oil palm and banana plantations, cattle ranches and "slash and
burn".
Comparisons
between habitat types, and between temperate and tropical systems, will
be made extensively throughout this course. Ecological concepts
will be presented in the context of ecosystems we will visit, where
field and classroom lectures will cover the biology and ecology of major
taxonomic groups, their adaptations in each ecosystem, and human uses
and threats. Field work will be integral to the course, and will include
guided hikes and instructor-led mini-projects designed to teach ecological
research methods.
At the Tiputini Biodiversity Station, you will live in one of the most
diverse places on earth. There you will engage in discussions
about the impacts of oil development, timber harvest, and the acculturation
of the indigenous peoples of the Amazon. In a small-group research
project you will learn to test hypotheses about phenomena that spark
your curiosity, and collect and analyze field data. Guided excursions
will expose you to the astounding diversity of tropical habitats, in
blackwater and whitewater rivers, salt licks and the soaring majesty
of the rainforest canopy.
