WRM-701: Freshwater Ecology

COURSE DESCRIPTION
This doctoral-level course provides a comprehensive introduction to the ecology of freshwater systems, including lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands. Students will explore the physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape these ecosystems, and examine the interactions between organisms and their environment. Key topics include the properties of water, aquatic biodiversity, population and community ecology, food webs, nutrient cycling, and human impacts. The course emphasizes the application of ecological principles to the management and conservation of freshwater resources.
COURSE TEACHING OBJECTIVES
1. Analyze the physical and chemical properties of freshwater environments and their influence on aquatic life.
2. Evaluate the biodiversity of freshwater ecosystems and the adaptations of organisms to different habitats.
3. Apply population and community ecology concepts to the study of freshwater systems.
4. Assess ecosystem functioning, including energy flow, nutrient cycling, and food web dynamics.
5. Critically examine human impacts on freshwater ecosystems and the application of ecological principles to conservation and management.
COURSE STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Explain the key physical and chemical processes that govern freshwater ecosystems.
2. Identify and describe the major groups of freshwater organisms and their ecological roles.
3. Analyze population dynamics and community interactions in freshwater habitats.
4. Evaluate the effects of human activities on freshwater ecosystems and propose management strategies.
5. Design a research or monitoring project to assess the health of a freshwater system.
Organization of Course Studies
The course is organized into five study periods (typically 2 weeks each, though self-paced). Each period includes intensive reading of the assigned textbook, viewing of the supplementary video, and a short response paper or ethical analysis (500–1,000 words) reflecting on the material and its application.