Biology (BLY) (BLY)
The first of a two-semester sequence designed for the non-major. The basic principles of biological phenomena are emphasized by examples relating to the human. Cell structure and function, energy and organ systems are studied. Credit will not be allowed for both the non-major sequence (BLY 101, BLY 101L and BLY 102 BLY 102L) and the major/minor sequence (BLY 121, BLY 121L and BLY 122, BLY 122L).
Laboratory exercises associated with BLY 101. Together, BLY 101 and BLY 101L count as one laboratory science course, partially fulfilling general education requirements. Credit will not be allowed for both the non-major sequence (BLY 101, BLY 101L and BLY 102 BLY 102L) and the major/minor sequence (BLY 121, BLY 121L and BLY 122, BLY 122L).
A continuation of BLY 101. Organ systems, cell reproduction, plant and animal development, heredity, evolution, and ecology area studied. Credit will not be allowed for both the non-major sequence (BLY 101, BLY 101L and BLY 102 BLY 102L) and the major/minor sequence (BLY 121, BLY 121L and BLY 122, BLY 122L).
Laboratory exercises associated with BLY 102. Together, BLY 102 and 102L count as one laboratory science course, partially fulfilling general education requirements. Credit will not be allowed for both the non-major sequence (BLY 101, BLY 101L and BLY 102 BLY 102L) and the major/minor sequence (BLY 121, BLY 121L and BLY 122, BLY 122L).
A study of general biological principles, including the chemical basis of life; cellular biology, including cell structure and metabolism, genetics, microevolution; and a survey of simple organisms, including bacteria, protists and fungi.Core Course.Credit will not be allowed for both the non-major sequence (BLY 101, BLY 101L and BLY 102 BLY 102L) and the major/minor sequence (BLY 121, BLY 121L and BLY 122, BLY 122L).
Laboratory exercises associated with BLY 121. Together, BLY 121 and BLY 121L count as one laboratory science course, partially fulfilling general education requirements. Credit will not be allowed for both the non-major sequence (BLY 101, BLY 101L and BLY 102 BLY 102L) and the major/minor sequence (BLY 121, BLY 121L and BLY 122, BLY 122L).Fee.
A study of plants, major invertebrate phyla, vertebrate morphology, plant and animal physiology, animal behavior, macroevolution and ecology. Core course. Credit will not be allowed for both the non-major sequence (BLY 101, BLY 101L and BLY 102 BLY 102L) and the major/minor sequence (BLY 121, BLY 121L and BLY 122, BLY 122L).
Laboratory exercises associated with BLY 122. Together, BLY 122 and 122L count as one laboratory science course, partially fulfilling general education requirements. Credit will not be allowed for both the non-major sequence (BLY 101, BLY 101L and BLY 102 BLY 102L) and the major/minor sequence (BLY 121, BLY 121L and BLY 122, BLY 122L).Fee.
An introduction to physical, chemical, and biological oceanography.
Lab experiences associated with BLY 134.
Environmental science, including the fundamentals required to understand how ecosystems work, how environmental modifications affect ecosystems and living things, and how living things affect their environment. Topics to be emphasized include the effects of pollution, habitat modification and other environmental changes, on ecosystems, plants, wildlife, man, outdoor recreation and the future. Public health and medical effects will also be considered. Many topics covered are of special significance to this region: wetlands, the effects of dredging and filling, artificial lake construction, development, agricultural and forestry practices on ecosystems, plants and animals. Requires college biology, or permission of instructor. The course includes lecture and a lab component.
A descriptive review of processes of aging. Emphasis is placed on studying structural and functional changes that could occur with increase in chronological age. Usually taught in the fall, spring and summer terms.
A survey of bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses with emphasis on host-microbe interactions, immune responses, and control mechanisms.
A series of laboratory experiments designed to provide practical experiments in basic microbial techniques.
Introduction to general concepts of ecology. Major topics will include population growth dynamics, community structure and interactions, ecosystem structure and function, and principles of biodiversity and biogeography. Theoretical and practical issues will be addressed. Core course.
A course designed to integrate cell structure and function: the study of the ultrastructure, organization, physiology, genetics, and other functions of the cell. Core course.
An introduction to both classical and modern genetic concepts and theory, with an emphasis on problem-solving. Topics covered include Mendelian genetics, molecular genetics, and evolutionary genetics. Core course.
Experimental designs in Biology is intended to provide students with basic skills of experimental design and statistical methodology needed in modern biological research. Additionally, students will learn basic statistical software (e.g., Minitab, Ecosim, Resampling Procedures). The use of statistical software will be fully integrated with lecture material to provide a 'holistic' learning experience. Having completed this course, students will have gained a basic foundation in quantitative procedures for analyzing and interpreting biological data. This course requires each student to have a lap-top computer and a copy of Minitab Student v 14, which is provided with the required text.
Introduction to general concepts of evolution. Major topics will include natural selection, genetic drift, quantitative genetics, phylogenetics, speciation, human evolution, and evolutionary medicine. Theoretical and practical issues will be addressed. Core course.
This course includes the study of plants in their form and structure by connecting them to their use by humans. Topics include plant anatomy and nomenclature; history of plant use; origins of economically important plants; use of flowers, fruits, stems and leaves for food and other purposes.
Study of procaryotic and eucaryotic microorganisms and their relationship to their environment. Molecular, genetic and biochemical aspects of each will be emphasized.
An in-depth laboratory experience to determine the genetic regulation involved in organ development using the C. elegans model system. The research experience gained in this laboratory class is designed to generate novel results to ultimately be shared with the larger scientific community. Emphasis will be place on mastering experimental design and data analysis. Students will work together in laboratory groups to carry out experiments, to discuss progress and conclusions, and review the primary literature relating to the project.
A survey of non-vascular plants: algae, fungi, liverworts, and mosses, with emphasis on morphology and taxonomy.
Ethical analyses of problems and issues in the biomedical and health-related fields. Topics may include genetic research and technology, abortion, health care, experimentation, and death and dying.
Laboratory experience with instrumentation and techniques utilized in modern cell biology research including organellar isolation, enzyme assay, protein analysis, and microscope techniques. Students develop and conduct group projects.
The function and regulation of the organ systems of the body and physiological integration of the systems to maintain homeostasis. Course content will include neural and hormonal homeostatic control mechanisms, and study of the musculoskeletal, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary, immune, reproductive, and endocrine systems.
Classification and habits of insects, including collection, preservation, and identification of those occurring in south Alabama.
Detailed study of the invertebrate phyla, taxonomy, ecology and phylogenetic relationship. Terrestrial, fresh-water, and marine forms are studied.
Anatomy and evolution of the organ systems of the major vertebrate groups. Laboratory includes dissections of dogfish, sharks, and cats. Category C (usually taught in the fall term).
A general survey of marine plants, invertebrates and vertebrates, the communities they form and the physical and chemical factors that influence them. Field trips include marsh, seagrass, and dune habitats. Sampling from research vessels and laboratory exercises will serve to introduce students to the diversity of marine habitats and organisms. Organisms will be identified using dichotomous keys. Participation in overnight field trips is a part of this course. Snorkeling gear is required.
Classification, anatomy, and ecology of cetaceans and manatees. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term.
Introductory course providing an overview of the biology and conservation of marine turtles. The course will culminate with a multi-day field trip to sea turtle nesting beaches and foraging grounds in the southeastern U.S. Class also will visit sea turtle research and rehabilitation facilities. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term. Special fees apply and will be posted on the website: www.disl.org
Techniques and issues involved with the commercial culture of marine organisms including nutrition, reproductive biology, production, water quality, processing, marketing, and economics. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term.
This course will provide an introduction to the biology of sharks and rays, with special emphasis on regional shark fauna and field techniques. Lectures will be supplemented with discussions of papers from the primary literature to familiarize students with current research; in addition, longline and gillnet sampling will provide students with first hand knowledge of field techniques and local shark identification. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term.
An introductory-level, field-based course covering identification, population dynamics and behavior of coastal avian fauna. Field trips will be taken to local coastal ecosystems and island rookeries. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term.
This course is for educational opportunities in foreign countries in any biological science discipline. Offered in May, or Summer Semester. May be repeated when content varies.
A study of the principles that regulate the development of a complex, multicellular from a single cell with a focus on the underlying molecular mechanism and genetic regulation. Topics to be covered will include fertilization, differentiation, cell fate determination, pattern formation, organogenesis and regeneration. Particular emphasis will be placed on the experimental approaches, both historical and contemporary, that led to our current understanding of the development of multicellular organisms.
An integrated lab-lecture course utilizing real-world research experiences to explore the molecular genetics and genomics of bacteria. Students will be directly involved in the design, execution, analysis, and presentation of group research projects determining the function of genes from completed microbial genomes. A basic foundation in microbiology and genetics is required for this course.
This class focuses on chemically mediated interactions between, among, and within organisms in both the aquatic and terrestrial environments. The topics covered include: chemoreception, chemical defense, chemical attraction, and the impact of chemical ecology on humans. This course includes a writing component. Students will gain experience in critical analysis, research development, grant writing, and computer-based presentation.
This course examines four aspects of freshwater ecology; physical and chemical properties of water, biotic communities, links among freshwater systems, and human influence on freshwater ecosystems. Students will be required to submit a collection of local freshwater invertebrates.
A general survey of marine algae and vascular and non-vascular plants associated with the marine environment. Distribution, identification, structure, ecology, and reproduction will be considered. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term.
An integrative study of higher plant functions. This course includes a study of water relations, plant biochemistry, plant development, and plant-environmental interactions.
A survey of the systematics, taxonomy, and structure of the major groups of vascular plants. Fossil plants (paleobotany) will also be covered where relevant. Many labs are outdoors and focus on plant structure and identification utilizing the rich local flora.
Plant Physiological Ecology is an investigation into the relatively "new" scientific field of physiological ecology (i.e., the study of how plants function in their environment) and is designed to meet the needs of students majoring in biology, ecology and/or various disciplines in plant biology. This course explores plant biology, plant-animal interactions, as well as, principles of ecology and evolution. Category B.
Identification and morphology of fungi with some emphasis on their relation to human affairs. Collection required.
This class will take a comparative approach to animal physiology. Comparisons of structural and functional relationships in the body systems of invertebrates and vertebrates, including humans, will be made. A basic foundation in chemistry and cell biology is required for this course. This course incorporates writing and computer components. Students will gain experience in critical analysis, research development and analysis, word processing, computer based statistical and graphical analysis, and in computer based presentation programs.
Study of the fundamental biochemical concepts; emphasis is placed on protein, carbohydrate, and lipid structure as related to their functional behavior; enzymes kinetics and mechanisms of action; thermodynamic relationships in biochemical systems. Offered only in Fall term. Cross-listed with CH 440.
Study of the reaction and regulations of intermediary metabolism; the biochemistry of genetics systems to include regulatory mechanisms and protein synthesis. Offered only in Spring term. Cross-listed with CH 441.
Course familiarizes the student with basic laboratory techniques commonly employed in biochemical research. Offered only in Spring term. Cross-listed with CH 443.
An ever growing body of online genetic datasets and publically available software makes basic informatic analysis of genetic systems no longer restricted to programmers. Utilizing the principle online resources employed by researchers today, this course will provide advanced undergraduates with a solid foundation in computational biology as well as the competency to independently evaluate emerging resources in the future. Students enrolled in this course will gain real world experience in the application of informatic techniques through participating in an actual collaborative research analysis and through directly contributing to a peer-reviewed manuscript reporting their results. Requires permission of instructor.
Course examines animal behavior from a biological and empirical viewpoint, with an emphasis on behavioral adaptations of animals to their environment. Orientation, migration, rhythms, communication, territoriality, social and courtship behaviors will be considered within the context of ecology and evolution.
A study of marine vertebrates, with emphasis on fishes; their systematics, zoogeography, and ecology. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term.
This is a marine field course designed to engage students in the collection, identification, and preservation of parasites of marine vertebrates and invertebrates. Each student will be required to submit a collection of parasites taken from beach, barrier island, estuarine, and pelagic (10-200km) offshore localities.
Principles of classification, structure, distribution, migration, natural history and adaptations of birds within an ecological context. Field & laboratory identification of birds by habitat, size, form, color, and sound. Some field activities may occur at times other than regularly scheduled laboratory hours.
Ecology and evolution of parasites and a survey of all major parasitic groups.
Microscopic anatomy of organ systems, with emphasis on human tissues. Category C (usually taught in the Spring term)
Neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of marine invertebrates and vertebrates. Topics include resting and action potentials, synaptic transmission, neurotransmitters, sensory transduction, muscle innervation, sensorimotor transformations, and the neurophysiological basis of behavior. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term.
Ecology and evolution of coral reef, seagrass, and mangrove communities. An additional assessment will cover transportation, meals, and lodging for a one-week field trip to Andros Island, Bahamas. Updated information at www.disl.org. Prerequisites: BLY 121 and 122 and BLY 325 or BLY 325 or BLY 425 or BLY 475. Category D (usually taught in summer session).
A field course that emphasizes the ecology, evolution, natural history, characteristics, structure, function, geographic distribution, behavior, and systematics of amphibians and reptiles. Course includes structured writing assignments and focuses on good writing skills and forms. Laboratory and field work emphasize identification of specimens by name, habitat, and characteristics. Some field activities will occur at times other than the scheduled laboratory hours.
A study of the natural history, systematics, and morphology of marine invertebrates. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term.
The ecological and evolutionary significance of animal behaviors in the marine environment. Exercises will include analysis of data collected from laboratory and field experiments. Statistics recommended. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term.
A general introduction to the oceans, with emphasis on chemical, physical, and geological processes and their relation to biological systems. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term.
The relationship of marine organisms to their environment. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term.
This course will focus on near shore wetland areas and emphasize biogeochemical processes, productivity, biodiversity and ecosystem function, as well as address the issues that threaten and protect these valuable resources.
Course consists of a 10-day field exercise in the tropical southeastern Gulf of Mexico (Florida Keys) and the temperate north Atlantic. Sites alternate annually. Faculty members with diverse interest accompany the students, participate in pre-trip readings and discussion sessions and evaluate the product developed by each student. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium (DISL). Offered during the summer term. Requires Senior or Graduate standing in a major related to Marine Sciences and permission of instructor.
The study of preserving biodiversity and sustaining ecosystems using a multidisciplinary approach. Primary emphasis will focus on the development of strategies for preservation and management using scientific principles and theory.
The study of mechanisms and historical patterns of evolutionary change in biological systems ranging from genes to phylogeny.
Small interested groups of students will study specialized topics not generally listed in the course offerings. Faculty and visiting professors will offer courses in their areas of specialization. This course may be taken more than once if the topic changes for a total of eight hours. Requires permission of the department.
Course is designed to enable the capable student to pursue independent research under the direction of a member of the faculty. Six hours of credit can be used to satisfy the 37 credit hours for the Biology major. Requires permission of the department chair.
Experience in planning, conducting, and reporting a research project under the direction of the faculty. Requires overall GPA 3.0, Biology GPA 3.5, and permission of the faculty.
The overall goal for this course to convey expectations and important "survival skills" required to succeed in the competitive world of science. Emphasis is placed on grant writing, publications, tenure and promotion, collegiality, productivity creativity, building a CV, alternative paths, and achieving balance between the professional and private life.
A study of the principles that regulate the development of a complex, multicellular organism from a single cell with a focus on the underlying molecular mechanism and genetic regulation. Topics to be covered will include fertilization, differentiation, cell fate determination, pattern formation, organogenesis, and regeneration. Particular emphasis will be placed on the experimental approaches, both historical and contemporary, that led to our current understanding of the development of multicellular organisms.
An integrated lab-lecture course utilizing real-world research experience to explore the molecular genetics and genomics of bacteria. Students will be directly involved in the design, execution, analysis, and presentation of group research projects determining the function of genes from completed microbial genomes. A basic foundation in microbiology and genetics is required for this course.
The impact of chemicals as toxic agents on ecosystems. Students will understand types, sources, and effects of environmental toxicants, methods of testing and interpretation, and regulation of environmental toxicants. This material will be presented in the context of ecosystem health rather than human health. This is a core course for MS degree students in the Environmental Toxicology program.
The application of statistical methodology, both univariate and multivariate techniques, to the solution of biological problems. This course is not designed as a substitute for instruction in statistics, but rather to complement previous course work. The laboratory will involve the use of PC computers to perform procedures on biological data and subsequent interpretation of the results. Prerequisites can be waived at the discretion of the instructor.
Chemical Ecology focuses on chemically mediated interactions within organisms in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. The topics covered include: chemoreception, chemical defense, chemical attraction, and the impact of chemical ecology on humans. Students will gain experience in critical analysis, research development, grant writing, and computer-based presentation. Requires permission of instructor.
Course examines four aspects of freshwater ecology: physical and chemical properties of water, biotic communities, links among freshwater systems, and human influences on freshwater ecosystems. Students will be required to submit a collection of local freshwater invertebrates. Prerequisite: Ecology (equivalent to BLY 303). This prerequisite may be waived at the discretion of the instructor. Dual listed with BLY 426.
A general survey of the types of microorganisms found in the marine environment. Emphasis will be on the interaction of microorganisms with each other and with their environment. In particular, the role of microorganisms in the carbon cycling and biogeochemical processes will be stressed. Readings from current literature will expose students to the latest techniques and research.
This course is an investigation into how plants function in their environment and is designed to meet the needs of students majoring in biology, ecology and/or various disciplines in plant biology. This course explores plant biology, plant-animal interactions, as well as, principles of ecology and evolution.
Identification and morphology of fungi with some emphasis on their relation to human affairs. Collection required. Credit for both BLY 535 and 435 is not allowed.
This class explores animal physiology, aiming to understand how animals work, from individual cells to whole organisms. We will take a comparative approach to understand the fundamental ways in which animals deal with the common challenges. A basic foundation in chemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and evolutionary biology is required for this course. Students will complete a capstone independent literature review on a topic of their choice in the field of animal physiology.
Study of the fundamental biochemical concepts; emphasis is placed on protein, carbohydrate, and lipid structure as related to their functional behavior; enzymes kinetics and mechanisms of action; thermodynamic relationships in biochemical systems. Offered only in Fall term. Cross-listed with CH 540.
Study of the reaction and regulations of intermediary metabolism; the biochemistry of genetics systems to include regulatory mechanisms and protein synthesis. Offered only in Spring term. Cross-listed with CH 541.
Course familiarizes the student with basic laboratory techniques commonly employed in biochemical research. Offered only in Spring term. Cross-listed with CH 543.
BLY 544 is a graduate course that covers the basic mechanisms by which organisms utilize, maintain and duplicate their genetic information. Topics to be covered include: organization of genes, the mechanisms and regulation of transcription, RNA processing and translation, the packaging of DNA as chromatin and its impact on gene expression, DNA replication, recombination and repair, and genomics and proteomics.
A study of marine vertebrates with emphasis on fishes; their systematics, zoogeography, and ecology. Students will have an opportunity to assemble a collection of vertebrate species. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Sciences Consortium. Credit for both BLY 551 and BLY 451 is not allowed.
Neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of marine invertebrates and vertebrates. Topics include resting and action potentials, synaptic transmission, neurotransmitters, sensory transduction, muscle innervation, sensorimotor transformations, and the neurophysiological basis of behavior. Credit for BLY 566 and 466 is not allowed.
Ecology and evolution of coral reef, seagrass, and mangrove communities. An additional assessment will cover transportation, meals, and lodging for a one-week field trip Andros Island, Bahamas. Updated information at www.disl.org. Prerequisite: BLY 325, Ecology. Credit for BLY 568 and BLY 468 is not allowed.
A field course that emphasizes the ecology, evolution, natural history, characteristics, structure, function, geographic distribution, behavior, and systematics of amphibians and reptiles. Course includes structured writing assignments and focuses on good writing skills and forms. Laboratory and field work emphasize identification of specimens by name, habitat, and characteristics. Some field activities will occur at times other than the scheduled laboratory hours. Oral classroom presentations required. Credit for BLY 470 and BLY 570 is not allowed.
A descriptive study of the oceanology of the Gulf of Mexico, and adjacent waters, including coastal zone, continental shelf, and deep ocean.
The Field Marine Science course will consist of an 8 - 12 day field exercise in representative coastal sites. The field exercise is conducted in the term break prior to the term of registration for the course. Faculty members with diverse interests will accompany the students, participate in pre-trip discussions and evaluate the product developed by each student. The course is designed to familiarize students with habitats and research conditions different from those they experience on the Northern Gulf Coast. Field trip locations are selected on the basis of faculty and student interest, economics, and availability of logistical support. Students pay their room and board costs for the field exercise. The course is primarily for graduate students, but advanced undergraduates may enroll with consent of instructor. Both BLY 483/583 and 488/588 may be taken for credit when each is taught in a different environment.
The study of mechanisms and historical patterns of evolutionary change in biological systems ranging from genes to phylogeny.
The course familiarizes the student with the taxonomic breadth of phytoplankton, bacterioplankton and zooplankton in estuaries, coastal seas and open oceans. Though the focus is on taxonomic familiarization, basic biology of all major taxa, represented in the plankton will be covered. Students will learn fundamental, as well as "cutting-edge", field, lab, and statistical techniques.
Small, interested groups of students will study specialized topics not generally listed in the course offerings. Faculty and visiting professors will offer courses in their areas of specialization. This course may be taken more than once if the topic changes for a total of eight hours. Requires permission of the department.
Recent research in areas of special academic interest to students and faculty.
Independent research under the direction of a member of the graduate faculty. A maximum of six credits may be used to meet degree requirements. Permission of instructor required.
Requires approval of research prospectus by student's graduate committee.