ENVC 112 - Limnology

Credits: 5
Variable Credit Course: No

Lecture Hours: 44
Lab Hours: 22
Worksite/Clinical Hours: 0
Other Hours (LIA/Internships): 0

Course Description: Introduction to natural and human-induced processes that shape lake ecosystems. Quantitative and qualitative measuring techniques will be used to assess water quality, including biological integrity.

Prerequisite: None.
Meets FQE Requirement: No
Integrative Experience Requirement: No

Student Learning Outcomes

Analyze the physical, chemical, and anthropogenic factors that shape lake ecosystems.
Measure and interpret water quality factors that determine aquatic habitat quality, especially those influenced by anthropogenic impacts.
Describe the biological communities of lake systems.
Apply concepts of ecological networks to limnological communities.
Communicate aspects of the scientific process including data visualization.

Course Contents

Introduction, morphometry, origin and classification of lakes. Light in lakes, heat in lakes, water movement in lakes.
Chemical and physical factors affecting lake ecosystems.
Trophic status of lakes. DO/CO2.
Nutrient cycling. Nitrogen, phosphates, and other ions.
Biota of lakes - bacteria, viruses, phytoplankton, zooplankton, and vascular plants.
Food webs in lakes.
Anthropogenic impacts and lake management.

Instructional Units: 5.5