BIOSM 3450

Marine Mammal Biology

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

Introduction to the biology and conservation of the whales and seals, with a particular focus on species of the Gulf of Maine. Lectures will examine many facets of marine mammal science including: taxonomy and species diversity, morphological and physiological adaptations for life in the sea, foraging ecology and behavior, reproductive cycles, bioacoustics, anthropogenic interactions, and management of threatened species. Land and open-water observations of whale and seal behavior will give students hands-on opportunities to study marine mammals in the field.

Prerequisites one semester of college-level biology, physiology and/or ecology or equivalent, e.g. BIOEE 1780/BIOSM 1780, BIOEE 1610/BIOSM 1610, BIOG 1440, or similar.

Distribution Requirements (OPHLS-AG), (BIO-AS)

Exploratory Studies (CU-SBY)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025SU, 2024SU, 2023SU, 2022SU

Learning Outcomes

• Students will be able to identify and explain morphological and physiological adaptations to life in seawater that are specific to marine mammals.
• Students will be able to discuss the evolutionary history of cetacean and pinniped marine mammals.
• Students will be able to describe the ecology of the Gulf of Maine based on seasonal patterns of productivity and resource availability.
• Students will be able to explain important aspects of the biology and ecology of marine mammals, including foraging habits and reproductive cycles of local species.
• Students will be able to identify the anthropogenic threats faced by marine mammals, including historic exploitation and current sources of mortality from human interactions.
• Students will be able to engage in dialogue about current conservation issues and management efforts for local marine mammal species.

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