[Coral-List] Summer field course on Bonaire

[Alex Brylske]

         Florida Keys Community College (FKCC) announces a field course, OCB 2262C Applications in Marine Science: Assessing Coral Reef Habitats, to be offered on Bonaire this summer (June 4-11). This course is part of FKCC’s A.S. degree program in Marine Environmental Technology, and is an excellent opportunity for those with minimal background in coral reefs.

The program will focus on methods for assessing and monitoring coral reef health. The lecture portion of the course introduces basic concepts in marine ecology, coral reef biology/geology, ecosystem function and the theory behind monitoring techniques. The practical portion explores methods of assessing health indicators using two simple monitoring protocols. The topics explored include: mapping and site selection, benthic community assessment using transects and quadrats; monitoring of invertebrates and fishes, and how to measure physical parameters. Course prerequisites include at least one prior course in marine science and scuba certification.

The course carries three semester hour credits at the sophomore level. However, it’s also an excellent option for recreational divers who are not interested in earning college credit, but want to a more in-depth knowledge of coral reef ecosystems.

For a complete program brochure explaining all aspect of the course contact alex.brylske at fkcc.edu or call 305-809-3148.

 



Alex. F. Brylske, Ph.D.
Professor, Marine Science & Technology
Florida Keys Community College
5901 College Rd.
Building C, Room 216
Key West, FL 33040
office: 305-809-3148
cell: 954-701-1966
alex.brylske at fkcc.edu
brylske at aol.com