BIO 477/590 Field Study on Thermoregulation in Texas Scorpions (1)*
Instructor: Cara Shillington, Ph.D.
Dates to be announced.
How are animals adapted physiologically to their environments? What happens when an organism's environment changes? Physiological ecology is the study of these and other questions about the short and long-term behavioral and physiological adjustments organisms make in order to survive and reproduce successfully in their ever-changing environments. During the semester-long Organismal Physiological Ecology course (BIO479/591) students will gain an understanding of how organisms function in their natural environment given their physiological capacities and the constraints of the environment.
During our one-week field trip, we'll have an opportunity to apply some of the concepts learned in this course while studying thermoregulation of several species of scorpions found in Texas. Scorpions will be located at night (they are nocturnal) and data collected will include behaviors, location in vegetation and measurement of body temperatures and surrounding environmental temperatures. We'll collaborate with faculty and students from Texas A&M International University and learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
*Co-requisite: BIO479/591 Organismal Physiological Ecology (3)
Program Fee: $580, plus tuition and fees.
This trip begins and ends at Laredo International Airport. You are responsible for your own transportation to and from the airport.
If you're using financial aid, additional assistance may be available for those who qualify. Contact financial aid.
We will be staying at Rancho La Union in Zapata County, Texas, a site reflecting a strong sense of south Texas ranching history with many hand-crafted structures from the early 1900s. Accommodations are chosen for proximity to key sites on the itinerary. Rooms are based on double occupancies with other students. Any special room requests must be made at the time you register along with your registration documents.
If you have any questions, contact Jen Short at 734.487.3229 or email@example.com.