This course will exam the geological, physical, and chemical aspects of estuaries as they affect the biological processes in these dynamic and highly productive systems. We will examine estuaries from a systems ecology point of view, and also focus on some of the dominant organisms found there, especially commercially important species. As much as possible, information about local estuaries will be incorporated. The course assumes a varied background of experience, but if you are having trouble with the "basics", see the instructor for assistance. The Instructor's role is to introduce you to estuarine ecological science, and while there are some basic concepts to be assimilated, the depth of exploration of the material is dependent on student feedback. In this regard, questions and discussion during class make the experience more rewarding for all, and is highly encouraged. Do not hesitate to bring up topics for discussion that are of interest to you. We will explore the Pensacola Bay System on several field trips including Shiptime on the R/V Bellows.

Text Estuarine Ecology Day, Hall, Kemp, & Vanez-Aranchibia, 1989, Wiley-Interscience

If you have a need for any in-class accommodations or special test-taking arrangements because of physical, and/or perceptual limitations, please contact the instructor or the departmental secretary (474-2748) as soon as possible.

Conflicts with scheduling must be taken care of in advance for non-emergency situations. Attendance at lectures is not mandatory. However, lectures will not be restricted to the text material. Bottom line: absences will probably adversely affect your grade.

Everyone: Weekly quizzes on the previous week's material and Literature review paper on topic of interest.

Additional Graduate Student Requirements: Read and summarize one scientific paper per week. From your review paper, prepare a 10-15 presentation for the last week of class.

The last day to withdrawal with an automatic "W" is 29 June 1999.

#	Week of	Subject	Notes
1	10 May	Introduction, Basic Concepts and Definitions
2	17 May	Geomorphology
3	24 May	Estuarine Circulation/Physical Oceanography
4	31 May	Water Quality/Chemistry
5	7 June	Primary Production: Photo & Chemosynthesis
6	14 June	Saltmarshes & Seagrasses
7	21 June	Heterotrophic Processes: Detritus
8	28 June	Heterotrophic Processes: Trophodynamics
9	5 July	Zooplankton
10	12 July	Benthic Organisms and Processes
11	19 July	Nekton
12	26 July	Estuarine Fisheries
13	2 Aug	Student Presentations