Environmental Physiology

This course seeks to explore the physiological mechanism by which animals are adapted to live in our planet’s diverse habitats. We study this topic by considering the physical and chemical properties of the environment, and how these properties shape the organismal functioning and performance. No animal is off limits to our exploration, as we will look at both vertebrates and invertebrates alike. Overarching themes will emphasize the power of natural selection as an evolutionary force that writes the “rules” of life, particularly in terms of survival.