Location:

Hamilton, Bermuda

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

Fishes are among the most conspicuous and fascinating mobile species on coral reef ecosystems with staggering diversity in morphology, behavior, and ecology. As the most observable and diverse assemblages of vertebrates on the planet, fishes are ideal for controlled experimentation and long-term observations. Studies of reef fishes have contributed immensely to our understanding of ecology, behavior, fisheries biology, and conservation biology. Participants will gain hands on experience in identification, field experimentation, behavioral observation, and molecular techniques, and will attain skills for conducting research underwater.

Ecology and Evolution of Reef Fishes is a three-week intensive field course examines the ecology and evolution of tropical fishes on the spectacular coral reefs of Bermuda. Located on the most northerly coral reef system in the Atlantic, Bermuda is home to a diverse and healthy assemblage of reef fishes and is an ideal location to study these creatures. Lectures and laboratories will cover a broad range of relevant topics and ecological principles in reef fish ecology, with a focus on systematics, anatomy, functional morphology, behavioral ecology and community structure.

Graduate and undergraduate students at BIOS can participate in a variety of summer and fall semester courses, gain valuable laboratory and field experience as interns, and work on collaborative research projects alongside BIOS faculty. Bermuda is uniquely situated to serve as a base for research on a variety of coastal and deep water issues, and is home to some of the world’s most northern coral reefs, allowing unique research and educational opportunities.

Setting Description:

Founded in 1903, the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS) is a world-class ocean science research and education facility. At BIOS, we believe that ocean science for human good involves not only research with tangible benefits for communities and the environment, but also education programs that highlight the many ways our lives are connected with the ocean. We view education as a crucial part of ocean science research, helping to translate the work of our faculty into meaningful experiences for visitors, students, teachers, and Bermuda residents.

Cost:

$4,900 (tuition, room and board). Students can apply to BIOS for scholarships to assist with the course fee.