BIO 596: Field Studies in Ecology
Tropical Biodiversity and Conservation
(4 credit hours)
Kentucky Institute for International Studies
Program Ecuador Summer 2006
Instructor: Dr. Ronald L. Jones
Course Description: This course introduces the student to the extraordinary variety of plants,
animals, and ecosystems of tropical regions. Students will observe and study the wide
range of habitats in the natural regions of Ecuador (a recognized center of
"megadiversity"), coastal habitats to rainforest to Andean highlands.
Emphasis is on understanding biodiversity issues in the tropics and on conservation
strategies needed to protect these dwindling resources.
Prerequisite: One year of college-level biology or permission of the instructor.
Students enrolled in this class may not enroll in BIO 694.
Purpose: This course provides students an opportunity to gain in-depth understanding
of the biodiversity and conservation issues confronting societies in tropical regions by
readings and first-hand observations of the natural resources and the local communities.
Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course students will have a greater
knowledge of the natural regions and the native inhabitants-- plants, animals, and humans,
of mainland Ecuador. Through various instructional activities
and field experiences in diverse settings in Ecuador, students will gain an appreciation of
the incredible diversity and complexity of tropical ecosystems. They will also have a
better understanding of the current rapid loss of these species and ecosystems, of the
reasons for these losses, and of what attempts have been made to slow this destruction and
to restore these ecosystems. Students will explore not only the local ramifications of the
habitat destruction, but also the possible effects worldwide.
Course Outline:
Week 1. Introduction to tropical climates and ecosystems; evolutionary patterns in the
tropics; neotropical pharmacy; tropical plants and animals.
Week 2. Andean ecosystems--geography, natural regions; vegetation structure, diversity, and function. Endemism and extinction;
coastal and island ecosystems; savannas and dry forests.
Week 3. Rainforest lowlands, rainforest structure, diversity, and function; rivers through
rainforests; indigenous peoples of the tropic; ; deforestation and conservation of diversity.
Week 4. Coastal lowlands---conservation issues; impacts of farming, ranching, mining, and timbering; final discussions; national parks and preserves.
Field Experiences: Visits to major archives and collections, visits to diverse landscape
settings to demostrate course content; participation in study excursions involving hiking
and snorkeling; meetings with local resource people and native peoples; participatory
observation in Indian villages; visits to development project sites; visits to national parks
and reserves.
Instructional Activities: Instructor lectures, guest lectures, field excursions, and
group discussions.
Resources: Textbook and supplemental readings and web sites; local expert personnel;
representatives of indigenous peoples' groups; Ecuadorian landscape.
Grading Procedures: Students will be evaluated according to the following criteria:
2 examinations at 50 points each; issue-based observational journal (50 points);
participation in class discussions and required study excursions (50 points). Point total is
200 points. Grading scale is:
89.5-100 = A
79.5-89.4 = B
69.5-79.4 = C
59.5-69.4 =D
less than 59.5 = F
Attendance Policy: All students are expected to attend all scheduled class sessions and
required field study excursions. Unexcused absences can be a factor in determining your
grade.
Text & References:
Kricher, John. 1999. A Neotropical Companion. 2nd ed. Princeton University Press.
Readings provided by the instructor and assigned readings from Internet sites. Students
should consult with the instructor before May 1, 2006, for all assigned readings.
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