Biology of Algae, Bryophytes, and Fungi

Students survey some of the major groups of photoautotrophic organisms including cyanobacteria, algae and bryophytes. They also examine the heterotrophic slime molds and fungi. Major evolutionary themes are covered such as the evolution of multicellular organisms from unicellular cells, the theory of endosymbiosis and horizontal gene transfer, and adaptation to land from a water environment. Emphasis is placed on the evolutionary patterns and processes to explain variations found in their reproductive, life history and growth characteristics. Students participate in a field trip to a regional research station.

Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in both BIOL 1115 and 1215; or permission of the instructor.

Corequisite(s): BIOL 2105.