Instructor: Dr. Christopher J. Kennedy                                                                                    Office: SSB 6157
Phone: 291-5640

Prerequisites:

The course is designed for the advanced undergraduate student with some basic understanding of biochemistry and general physiology .  BISC 316 or permission of the Department is required.
 

Course description:

The course is a comprehensive introduction to fish biology.  Although the traditional areas of study such as systematics, anatomy and distribution of fishes are covered, this course emphasizes the basic principles of ichthyology through molecular, biochemical, physiological and ecological approaches.  Extraordinary examples of adaptations in fishes will be drawn from all parts of the globe with special reference to local fauna.

Outline:

I. Introduction.

History of ichthyology, fish classification, Modern fishes: 'lampreys and hagfishes', 'sharks, skates and rays', 'relict bony fishes' and 'modern bony fishes'.

II. Form and function.

External anatomy: body shape, scales, fins. Gas exchange: branchial gas transfer, blood gas transport, air breathing, O2 requirements. Cardiovascular system: cardiac anatomy, regulation, vascular patterns and blood flow distribution. Osmotic and ionic regulation: agnathans, chondrichthyes and teleost mechanisms; acid-base balance, ammonia and urea metabolism and excretion. Sensory perception: vision, chemoreception, electrosensation, inner ear and lateral line. Swimming: propulsion systems, energetics, buoyancy: dense fishes, oily fishes and watery fishes. Thermal biology; endothermy, ectothermy, antifreezes, mechanisms in thermal adaptation. Reproductive physiology; reproductive cycles, sex differentiation, breeding, care of young.  Behavior; migration, schooling, feeding behavior, communication, coloration

III. Ecology and zoo geography.

Fish communities, symbiosis, intra and inter specific interactions.  Estuaries, freshwater and marine systems, tropical reefs, epipelagic zones and deep-sea habitats.

IV. Laboratory sessions and field trips.

Labs will involve standard methods in fish biology, illustrate ichthyological principles and give examples of recent research developments. One weekend trip to the Bamfield Marine Station is planned as well as 2 afternoon trips to the Vancouver Aquarium and Capilano Hatchery.

Mark distribution:

Midterm exam 40%
Slide presentation   5%
Final exam 55%

Required textbook:

There is no required textbook for the course.