Catholic Mission

 

Tropical Marine Biology in the Bahamas

A special spring session program of Gannon University in cooperation with the Gerace Research Center on San Salvador Island in the Bahamas.

February 29 - March 8, 2008

Course: BIOL 383 Tropical Marine Biology 2 Undergraduate Credits

Description of Course Activities

The activities for the course include observation and identification of marine organisms while snorkeling among them in the crystal clear water over coral reefs. Many species of fish and marine invertebrates will be identified, and their behaviors will be observed as they interact in and around the habitat provided by the coral reefs. In addition to coral reef investigations, you will observe, the organisms that inhabit the mangroves and turtle grass beds of Pigeon Creek. You will explore the tidal pools and tidal flats at low tide, and collect and observe the many animals that inhabit this unique system. You will also collect and observe the animals that inhabit the sandy beaches and dunes. You will also visit caves, both aquatic and terrestrial, and local historical landmarks like the Sandy Point Estate and the lighthouse.

Evening activities will include videos that will help with the identification of organisms we observed, and discussions of the day’s activities. Identification manuals will be provided to aid in the identification of the many fish and invertebrate species you will encounter on San Salvador. Snorkeling equipment will be provided.

The San Salvador Field Station
San Salvador offers a natural field laboratory for the student who wishes to participate in vigorous investigations in accordance with his academic preparation and to engage in scholarly research. The following six purposes guide our activities at the field station:

• to inquire into the meaning of environmental relationships
• to develop an understanding of another culture
• to instruct students in research methods and techniques
• to conduct initial surveys and advanced field studies
• to define suitable topics for future investigations
• to convey findings and suggestions for subsequent investigations to the Bahamian government