Extr BlueWrld: Biol Marine Mam

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

Course Title: Extremes in a Blue World: The Biology of Marine Mammals What is life like in the ocean? We will explore this question from the perspective of the world’s largest inhabitants, marine mammals. From the sea otter to the blue whale- it is a world of extremes. While blue whales are the largest animals to ever grace the planet, the bowhead whale is the oldest mammal. Whales are the deepest divers and among the biggest travelers. Outside of humans, only whales (some species) exhibit menopause. The largest brains outside of humans are also in our oceans. Why? In this course we will explore the evolution, anatomy, physiology, life history, cognition, ecology and behavior of marine mammals (cetaceans, pinnipeds, sirenia, sea otters, and polar bears). We will also cover ocean processes and how they influence marine mammal foraging ecology, breeding and migration. Rising seas and conservation issues will dominate the final weeks of the course. The course will consist of discussions and field trips. This is an introductory course in marine mammal biology designed for non-science majors. Biology majors can take it as an elective.