BIONB 3690

BIONB 3690

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2015-2016.

Why are chilies so spicy? This course examines the chemical basis of interactions between species and is intended for students with a basic knowledge of chemistry and biology. Focuses on the ecology and chemistry of plants, animals, and microbes. Stresses chemical signals used in diverse ecosystems, using Darwinian natural selection as a framework. Topics include plant defenses, microbial warfare, communication in marine organisms, and human pheromones.

When Offered Spring.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: one majors-level biology course and one semester introductory chemistry for majors or nonmajors or equivalents, or permission of instructor.

Distribution Category (PBS)

Comments A University Course - this class highlights cross-disciplinary dialogue and debate.

Outcomes
  • Students will be able to categorize ecological interactions and potential mechanisms by which they are mediated
  • Students will be able to discuss these mechanisms in light of evolutionary theory and draw conclusions about potential agricultural applications
  • Students will be familiar with the general structures of organic molecules and the relationship between structure and function
  • Students will be familiar with a number of analytical, behavioral, and experimental techniques used to analyze chemical compounds that mediate ecological interactions
  • Students will be able to read and synthesize findings from original scientific research in chemical ecology by studying and discussing the primary literature

View Enrollment Information

Syllabi: none
  •   Regular Academic Session.  Combined with: BIOEE 3690ENTOM 3690

  • 3 Credits Stdnt Opt

  •  1763 BIONB 3690   LEC 001

    • MWF Corson-Mudd A106
    • Agrawal, A

      Kessler, A

      Raguso, R

      Thaler, J

  • Prerequisite: one majors-level biology course and one semester introductory chemistry for majors or nonmajors or equivalents, or permission of instructor.