This course investigates coral reef structure, formation, types and the relationship of reef organisms to their environment. Emphasis will be given to species diversity/identification, symbiosis, and effects of temperature, salinity, light, nutrient concentration, current predation, and competition on the abundance and distribution on coral reef organisms. Since this course is also offered for graduate credit, a differentiation of requirements will be made.

This course will be offered at the Marine Science Consortium at Wallops Island, Va., with a portion taught in Honduras.