ENV23321

This class introduces students to the natural history of the biodiverse Midriff Island Region of the Gulf of California, Mexico. The Gulf of California is one of Earth's most productive marine environments. Its islands, biological diversity, biogeography, and cultural history make it a remarkable place for students to learn about marine and coastal natural history. Class and field sessions introduce students to the coastal ecosystems, desert, islands, and offshore environments of the Gulf of California. Students develop skills in field observation, species identification, and field journaling. They demonstrate their learning by completing a series of species accounts, a detailed field journal and participation in field activities, readings, and class discussions. This class gives students unparalleled opportunities to experience and learn about the diversity of marine life in the Gulf of California, including invertebrates, fish, birds, marine turtles, marine mammals, and marine and coastal plants. SPECIAL NOTES: This class is offered at the Kino Bay Center, Sonora, Mexico. Passport required. The first week will be spent in Prescott and the class will travel together to Mexico. Although not required, students are strongly encouraged to take this course sequentially with ENV23319 Cultural Geography and ENV43311 COmmunity-Based Marine Convservation.