Enhancing the Microbial Ecology and Biogeochemistry Curriculum in Aquatic Biology and Ecology

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The undergraduate program in aquatic biology is being strengthened by expanding the scope of treatment to include microbial ecology. The innovation, which involves the acquisition of a liquid scintillation counter, autoanalyzer, fluorescence microscope, and lab balance, makes use of experimental ecology as an educational vehicle to teach students about 1. important ecological processes mediated by microorganisms; 2. the microbial groups involved with specific processes; and 3. techniques for the assessment of microbial numbers, biomass, and nutrient cycling. A variety of experimental exercises employing the equipment are being integrated into the upper division courses of aquatic biology, ecology, and limnology. The exercises are designed to provide students with a broad coverage of microbial ecology. The university is contributing 122% of the award.