SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry · Courses
EFB
139 courses with the subject EFB, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
EFB 100Survey of Biology4
Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Introductory exploration of biological principles at molecular, cellular, organismal and ecological levels. Key topics include: the scientific method, biological molecules, cell structure and processes, cell division, genetics, evolution, phylogenetics and classification of life, plant and animal form/function, population dynamics, interspecific interactions, global biodiversity, ecosystem processes. Possibility of weekend field trips. Spring. This course will not replace any of the following course sequence: EFB101, EFB102, EFB103 or EFB104 (or equivalent).
Three hours of lecture per week. Introductory exploration of biological principles at ecosystem, population, and organismal levels. Emphasis on form, function, diversity, ecology and evolution of living organisms. Fall. Co-requisite: EFB 102. SUNY ESF | 324 | Course Catalog
One week intensive based at the Cranberry Lake Biological Station. Focus is on basic field and laboratory identification of a variety of Adirondack taxa. Experimental design, sampling methodology, statistical analysis, and scientific communication are explored through group research projects and a final symposium. Summer. Prerequisite: High school students only
One hour of lecture, discussion and/or exercises per week. Introduction to campus resources available to ensure academic success. Introduction to EFB as a field of inquiry. Fall.
Forty-five hours of lecture, laboratory and field instruction per week for three weeks. An introduction to the biodiversity of northeastern North American terrestrial, wetland, and aquatic communities with a focus on vascular plants and invertebrate and vertebrate animals, incorporating practical field exercises designed to acquaint the student with problem solving. Summer, Cranberry Lake Biological Station. Students must register for summer session, to which appropriate tuition and fees apply in addition to travel and lodging costs.
Two hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory instruction per week. Introductory exploration of the diversity of life at local, regional and global scales. Hands-on laboratory exercises explore the form, function, diversity, ecology, and evolution of living organisms, focusing on viruses, fungi and plants. Fall. Prerequisite(s): One year of introductory biology. SUNY ESF | 325 | Course Catalog
Two hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory instruction per week. Introductory exploration of the diversity of life at local, regional and global scales. Hands-on laboratory exercises explore the form, function, diversity, ecology, and evolution of living organisms, focusing on microbes, protistans and animals. Spring. Prerequisite(s): EFB 101 and 102 or equivalent year of introductory Biology.
Three hours of lecture/discussion per week. Impacts of selected diseases and pests on the development and course of human civilizations. Emphasis is on the impacts of plagues and pests on non-western civilizations. Spring.
Introduction to the science of diving. Incorporates skill sets that can lead to scuba certification. Students will learn fundamentals of diving as they apply to physics and physiology. Students will learn to perform basic scuba diving, nitrox gas diving, and use of a drysuit. These are required skills to progress in scientific diving and will prepare students for entry level diving and additional scuba classes. Available SDI certifications are Open Water Diver, Computer Nitrox, and Dry Suit Diver. Fall and Spring
One hour per week of discussion. An introduction to contemporary issues in forest health with a focus on the ecology and management of long-term and emerging threats to the forests of the northeastern U.S. Spring, odd years.
Experimental, interdisciplinary or special coursework at the freshman or sophomore levels. Subject matter and course format vary from semester to semester or offering on the basis of needs and objectives of the course. Fall or Spring.
Full- or part-time engagement as volunteer or employee on research project having environmental biology focus consistent with the student's educational and professional goals. Tenure at SUNY ESF or outside institution. EFB-based faculty member serves as student's sponsor. Study plan outlining the apprenticeship's educational goals completed prior to its commencement. Students shall report their activities to their instructor on a weekly basis for the duration of the course. Grading Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory. Fall, Spring, Summer. Prerequisite(s):
Three hours of lecture and discussion per week. Introduction to perspectives of indigenous people on environmental and natural resources management issues, including tribal forestry, fisheries, biocultural restoration, conservation strategies, climate change and treaty rights. Integrates scientific and indigenous worldviews and knowledge systems. Spring. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 305 and EFB 605.
The study of theory and application of common field techniques for monitoring wildlife populations. Concepts and methods include ethical care and use of wildlife in field research; identification of New York mammals by tracks, photos, and in-hand specimens; assessment of habitat quality; monitoring of elusive forest species; techniques for capturing, handling, and measuring wild animals; radio telemetry; acoustic surveys. Satisfies field study elective requirement in all Environmental Biology majors. Room, board, transportation and course fees will apply. Pre/co-requisites: Two semesters of General Biology (EFB101, 102, 103, 104) or equivalent
Three hours of lecture and discussion per week. A general course covering concepts of genetics and evolution basic to upper-division biology and biochemistry courses. Includes the inheritance and analysis of Mendelian and quantitative traits, the chemical nature of the gene and its action, genetic engineering, the genetic structure of populations and their evolution. Numerical methods for characterizing and analyzing genetic data are introduced. Spring. Pre-requisites are two semesters of General Biology; co-requisite EFB308 (Principles of Genetics Laboratory) or equivalent
Three hours of auto-tutorial laboratory per week. Experiments with plants and animals and computer simulation exercises demonstrate the basic principles of inheritance of Mendelian traits and changes in populations caused by major forces in evolution or by breeding procedures. Numerical methods for characterizing quantitative traits and for testing hypotheses are introduced. Spring. Co-requisite: EFB 307.
Two week field course. Explores philosophy and approaches for studying wildlife that minimize harm while adhering to diverse cultural dimensions of respect towards wildlife. Includes a variety of minimally invasive field techniques and technologies (including remote cameras, audio recorders, drones, tracking, field observations and journaling), and exploration of diverse philosophies and personal ethics, and how they relate to research and data collection. Summer, Cranberry Lake Biological Station. Offered in alternate years. Prerequisite:2 semesters of General
Three hours of lecture and discussion weekly. Explores plant-human interactions drawing upon multiple disciplines including botany, ecology, genetics, evolution, anthropology, chemistry, religion, history and economics. Surveys economic, socio-cultural and ecological interactions with plants. Introduces basic botany and ethnobotany through examination of plants in traditional and contemporary cultures. Fall, odd years. Prerequisites: One semester of General Biology. Fall
In person discussion and in water training/computer learning modules. This is the second in a sequence of three scientific diving courses instructed in collaboration between SUNY ESF and Scuba Diving International (SDI). This course will develop and refine student skills with recreational diving equipment configurations, and expand on gas planning techniques within a no-decompression context. Students will refine navigational skills that help them in an underwater environment. Students will have the opportunity to obtain up to three diving certifications(SDI Foundations, Computer Nitrox, and Dry Suit Diver). Students must be Open Water Dive certified to enroll. Spring Prerequisites: Open water dive certification
Two hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Evolutionary survey of the origin and diversification of land plants through geological time. Major land plants including bryophytes, lycophytes, pteridophytes, gymnosperms and angiosperms with emphasis on representative fossil and living taxa. Life histories and reproductive strategies, anatomical and morphological adaptations, species extinction and extinction events, and phylogenetic relationships within and among phyla. Highlights rare or endangered taxa in each phylum and related conservation strategies and management. Lab focused on analyses of plant structures, reproductive mechanisms, evolutionary adaptations, and identification of a variety of living and preserved specimens. Spring. Prerequisite: Two semesters of General Biology (EFB101,102,103,104) or equivalent
Two hours of lecture, and eight hours of field work and discussion each day for two weeks. An integrated field and laboratory course in the identification of vascular plants and recognition of ecological characteristics of major plant species and communities of the Adirondack Mountain region. Satisfies elective field study requirement in Environmental and Forest Biology. Appropriate for upper and lower division undergraduate students seeking instruction in plant identification SUNY ESF | 328 | Course Catalog
Two hours of lecture per week and six to eight hours of field work and discussion each day for two weeks. A field-based introduction to the identification and traditional cultural uses of plants in the Adirondack region for food, medicine and fiber. Topics include plant identification, traditional ecological knowledge and use of ecological and ethnobotanical methods. Satisfies elective field course requirement in programs offered by Department of Environmental and Forest Biology. Cranberry Lake Biological Station. Summer. Students must register for summer session, to which appropriate tuition and fees apply in addition to travel and lodging costs.
Two hours of lecture per week and three hours of auto-tutorial laboratory. Major diseases of forest, shade and ornamental trees; and deterioration of forest products, with emphasis on disease identification, principles of disease development, effects of disease on the host, and practical control measures. Spring.
Two hours of lecture, and eight hours of fieldwork and discussion each day for two weeks. An integrated field and laboratory course designed to provide an introduction to the collection, identification and ecology of fungi and fungal-like organisms. Included in the course are Oomycetes (Kingdom Straminipila) and Myxomycetes (Kingdom Protista), as well as the more familiar groups of Kingdom Fungi. Satisfies field study elective requirement in Environmental and Forest Biology. Summer, Cranberry Lake Biological Station. Students must register for summer session, to which appropriate tuition and fees apply in addition to travel and lodging costs.
One hour per week of presentation and discussion. In-depth analyses of contemporary issues in forest health with a focus on the ecology and management of long-term and emerging threats to the forests of the northeastern U.S. Prerequisites: Two semesters of general biology, or equivalent.
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Basic insect diversity, ecology and pest management with an emphasis on insect pests of forested ecosystems. Designed for students in Environmental Biology, Forest Health and Forest Resources Management. Fall, even years. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 351 and EFB 551.
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Basic insect diversity, ecology and pest management with an emphasis on common insect pests of the northeastern U.S. Designed SUNY ESF | 329 | Course Catalog
Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Structure, function, classification and evolution of invertebrates. Emphasis on functional biology and ecological interactions. Spring.
Two hours of lecture and discussion per week plus a 3-hour lab. An introduction to population ecology and genetics with consideration of their impact on population management. An integration of biological systems from molecular to ecosystem levels, with an emphasis on demystifying mathematical expression of complex ecological phenomena. We will draw on examples ranging from genetic diversity to human/wildlife conflicts to explore their influences on the maintenance of wild populations. Spring. Prerequisite: General Ecology or equivalent.
One hour of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Theory and practice of vertebrate museum methods, with emphasis on the preparation and curation of vertebrate specimens. Spring. Prerequisites: At least junior status and permission of instructor. Limited to 10 students.
Two hours of lecture, and eight hours of field work and discussion each day for two weeks. An integrated field and laboratory course in the identification, natural history, ecology, and conservation of amphibians and reptiles of the Adirondack region. Satisfies field study elective requirement in Environmental and Forest Biology. Summer, Cranberry Lake Biological Station. Students must register for summer session, to which appropriate tuition and fees apply in addition to travel and lodging costs. Prerequisite: General biology or general zoology.
Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Analysis of vertebrate structure, with emphasis on comparative study of organ systems. Includes evolution of form and function, major adaptive patterns and phylogenetic relationships in vertebrates. Spring.
Two hours of lecture, and eight hours of fieldwork and discussion each day for two weeks. An integrated field and laboratory course in the identification of fish and recognition of ecological characteristics of major fish species and communities of Adirondack waters. Satisfies a component of the field study elective requirement in Environmental and Forest Biology. Summer, Cranberry Lake Biological Station. Students must register for summer session, to which appropriate tuition and fees apply in addition to travel and lodging costs. Prerequisite: General zoology or general biology. SUNY ESF | 330 | Course Catalog
Three hours of lecture per week. Introduction to contemporary concepts of toxicology and to scientific basis for regulations and personal decisions about toxic health hazards. For students in natural or social sciences of environmental relevance. Topics include xenobiotic load, co- evolution of plant/animal defenses, chemical interactions, animal tests and risk assessment. Fall. EFB 400 and EFB 600.
General biology and general chemistry. Note: Credit will not be granted for both
EFB 402Microbial Ecology2
Two hours of lecture per week. This course focuses on microbes in their environment including the environmental factors that shape microbial communities and how microbes, in turn, change their environment. An in-depth survey of contemporary topics in microbial ecology including nutrient limitations; carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and metal cycling; microbial degradation of recalcitrant compounds; microbial influence on climate; and methods in microbial ecology including metagenomics and fluorescent microscopy. Spring (odd years). Credit will not be given for both 402 and 602. Prerequisites: EFB 303, a similar microbiology course, or instructor permission is required.
Three hours of lecture with discussion per week. Centers on chemical signals among organisms from microbes to man as they affect ecology, physiology and behavior; and as they can be utilized for agriculture, pest management and animal husbandry. Spring. Prerequisite: Organic chemistry (one year). Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 412 and FCH 440.
Two hours of lecture and one hour of discussion/recitation per week. As an introduction to the discipline of conservation biology, the course seeks to demonstrate how basic biological science can be integrated with social, economic and political perspectives to achieve the goals of biological conservation. Lectures will provide students with an understanding of processes that generate and erode biological diversity. Discussion/recitation exercises will provide students with hands-on experience and skill development in solving the sorts of complex problems typically encountered by conservation biologists. Fall.
Three hours of discussion/seminar per week. Students research a topic in conservation biology, then practice critical thinking and discourse by presenting seminars and participating in discussions. The focus is on integrating knowledge from previous courses in biology, management, and policy for the wise use and conservation of biological diversity. Fall. Pre- or co-
This course combines foundational content, dry lab and pool training, and open water dives to equip students with the skills and knowledge to pursue a career in the aquatic sciences. Students will receive personalized training and hands-on learning, to master the skills and equipment used on research dives. The course will teach many scuba techniques applicable to scientific diving and situational and self awareness. Teamwork, situational awareness, communication, planning, and preparation will be practiced during a group field project. Additional fees to cover pool courses, equipment rentals, learning module materials and certification may apply. Fall. Prerequisites: EFB 322 Scuba Diving International Foundations
EFB 423Marine Ecology (3) Three hours of lecture, discussions, and in class activities per week
Introduction to marine organisms and systems, using the principles of population, community and ecosystem ecology. Hands-on demonstrations, discussions, presentations, interactive activities and lectures allow study of major marine habitats (e.g., intertidal, pelagic, coral reefs, deep sea), the increasing human impacts on marine environments, and potential solutions. Spring, even years. Prerequisites: One year general biology and one semester general ecology or equivalents. Credit will not be granted for both EFB 423 and EFB 623.
Three hours of lecture per week, with some additional hands-on activities during the semester. An introduction to the geology, physics, chemistry and biology of inland waters (lotic and lentic). The course focuses on inland waters as integrated ecosystems and explores the effects of natural and anthropogenic perturbations on these systems. Fall. Prerequisites: Senior status, introductory courses in physics and chemistry, and EFB 320, or permission of instructor. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 424 and EFB 624.
One hour per week of lecture, six hours per week of field and laboratory. Examines the varied ecological roles and impacts of pests, pathogens, climate and disturbance in managed and unmanaged northern forests. Students learn to sample, identify, and study forest insects, pathogens and trees using inventory, survey, analytic methods, and independent research. EFB210, EFB211 or equivalent)
One year of General Biology, and one semester of organismal diversity (EFB202,
EFB 427Plant Anatomy & Development3
Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory instruction per week. This course offers a dynamic approach to the study of plant anatomy by understanding how cells, tissues and organs SUNY ESF | 332 | Course Catalog
Two hours of lecture per week and three hours of lab. A critical study of the physiological processes of plants including water relations, photosynthesis, mineral assimilation, hormones, and responses to the environment. Spring. Credit will not be granted for both EFB429 and EFB629. Prerequisites: One full year of biology (EFB101/102 and EFB 103/104). One full year of chemistry (FCH 150/151 and FCH 152/153).
A field-based introduction to field study, identification, and ecology of flowering and non- flowering vascular plants. Daily field trips to several high-quality natural areas in Onondaga County and nearby counties.
A summer field course followed by a weekly seminar and workshop during the Fall. Will travel in Mesoamerica. Will examine degraded and restored ecosystems. Will travel on public transportation and stay in low-cost hostels. Will use contemporary problems as source material for course projects. Continuation of restoration project designs and analysis from the field trip will be part of the coursework after returning to Syracuse. The course will explore restoration strategies in many different ecosystems. Will consider restoration needs in less developed countries, and how that shapes design and evaluation. Course fee. Fall. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Diversity, evolution, and systematics of flowering plants with emphasis on flower structures and reproductive strategies. Flowering plant identification skills are built from examination of a broad diversity of species from major globally distributed families with particular focus on flora of the Northeastern U.S. Fall. Prerequisite(s): General Biology I and II or equivalent and at least junior standing.
Two hours of discussion and two hours of laboratory each week. Introduction to sexual (seed) and asexual (cuttings, budding, grafting, layering, tissue culture, etc.) techniques for reproducing plants. Laboratory and independent research projects will provide practical hands-on experiences. Spring. Prerequisite(s): EFB 101/102 and EFB 103/104 sequence or equivalent. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 437 and EFB 637. SUNY ESF | 333 | Course Catalog
Three hours per week of lecture and discussion. An overview of the ecology of ducks, geese and swans from the perspective of life history events (i.e., breeding, migration, and wintering ecology). Contemporary strategies used in conservation of waterfowl populations and their habitats. Credit cannot be given for both EFB438 and EFB638. Prerequisites: General Ecology or permission of instructor
Three hours of lecture/discussion per week on theoretical and applied aspects of forest health monitoring including concepts, data acquisition, analysis, quality assurance, interpretation and reporting. Spring. Pre- or co-requisite(s): Courses in forest resources management, ecology, pathology and entomology.
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Fundamentals of the morphology, taxonomy, life histories, ecology and symbiotic relationships of fungi. Fall. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 440 and EFB 640.
Three hours of lecture and discussion per week. Impacts of global changes in climate, biodiversity, land-use, and biogeochemical cycles on structure and function of terrestrial plant communities and ecosystems. Examined scales range from ecophysiological processes occurring in individual leaves to global patterns of primary productivity and biodiversity. Spring. Prerequisite: EFB 320 General Ecology or equivalent. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 445 and EFB 645.
Two hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory or field trip per week. A study of taxonomic diversity, ecological adaptations and the roles of bryophytes in ecosystems. Spring. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 446 and EFB 646.
Three hours per week of lecture, discussion, and field demonstrations. Contemporary techniques in wetlands conservation and management with a focus on sustaining wetland-dependent wildlife. Includes a survey of conservation strategies used and stakeholders involved throughout North America and beyond. A half-day weekend field trip is required. Spring (even years). Credit will not be given for both EFB449 and EFB649. Prerequisites: General Ecology (EFB320 or equivalent) or permission of instructor.
Two hours of lecture/discussion per week, three hours laboratory per week. Diversity, ecology, and impact of parasites of ecological, medical, and veterinary importance. Emphasis on identification, life history, control, host-parasite interactions and evolution, population patterns, and parasite communities. Fall. Prerequisite(s): One year of Introductory Biology, Ecology. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 453 and EFB 653.
Three hours of lecture and discussion per week. Introduction to principles of ecotoxicology and to contemporary scientific research. For students in natural or social sciences of environmental relevance. Topics include chemical fate in animals, and effects on individuals, populations, and ecosystems. Credit will not be given for both EFB463 and EFB663. Two semesters of General Biology; two semesters of General Chemistry; General Ecology
Three hours of lecture/discussion per week. Basic principles of animal behavior and the scientific process, including genetic, neural and physiological basis of behavior, behavioral ecology and behavioral responses to a changing environment. Proximate and ultimate mechanisms controlling the behavior of animals including humans. Fall. Prerequisite(s): EFB 101 or equivalent.
Three hours of lecture and discussion, 3 hours of laboratory/field trip per week including weekend field trip experiences. Study of the evolution, ecology, behavior, taxonomy, populations, and breeding biology of the birds of North America. The course also offers exposure to the life histories and current topics of conservation and management of birds worldwide. Lecture, laboratory, and field trips. Spring. Prerequisites: General Ecology
Three hours of classroom instruction and three hours of laboratory per week. Describes the evolutionary development, ecology and diversity of mammals world-wide and within New York State. Laboratory exercises and discussions complement lectures, providing hands-on experience in identification, adaptive morphology, and techniques in field mammalogy. Fall. Prerequisites: Junior standing in EFB.
Field and lecture course. This lecture and field course explores adaptations of animals and plants for surviving the winter in northern latitudes. The course presents species identification, natural history, behavior, ecology and winter strategies. One hour per week of asynchronous on-line instruction, plus ten-days of field instruction during one weekend in February and during March break in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. Credit will not be given for both EFB 484 and
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. An introduction to the anatomy, physiology, ecology, behavior and taxonomy of fishes. Spring.
Three hours of lecture per week. Introduction to biology, ecology, quantitative assessments, conservation, and management of fish species targeted in fisheries. Includes models and empirical studies of population dynamics, life history theory, bioenergetics, population sampling, growth, mortality, production, exploitation, ecological effects, and approaches to fisheries management. A practicum (EFB 488) is optional. Fall. Prerequisite: Calculus and either Limnology or Ichthyology or permission of instructor. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 487 and EFB 687.
Three hours of laboratory per week with 2 weekend field trips. Practical experience in fisheries science, including introduction to collecting techniques, data collection, analysis, and use of models. A nominal fee is charged to defray costs on weekend trips. Designed as a complement to EFB 487. Fall, even years. Co-requisite: EFB 487 (may be taken in a previous year).
Two hours of discussion and three hours of laboratory per week, plus a field project and professional experience. Practical experience with tools used to monitor and manage wildlife populations. Designed for biology students wishing to pursue careers as wildlife biologists. Spring. Prerequisite: EFB 390.
One hour of seminar per week. Students will prepare for their future as professionals in the aquatic and fisheries science field. Field trips to agencies and interact with practicing professionals. Complete a mock interview. Develop skills in problem solving and knowledge of current issues in the aquatic science realm. Spring. Prerequisite: Senior standing in the Aquatic and Fisheries Science major.
Three hours of lecture/discussion and one three-hour laboratory per week; one Saturday field trip required. Application of ecological concepts, including succession and population biology to wildlife management planning and program assessment. Students are exposed to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service habitat evaluation procedures and fundamentals of population modeling. Fall. 493 and EFB 693.
An opportunity for qualified, senior undergraduate students to gain experience in fully supervised, college-level teaching of the type they can expect to perform in graduate school. Students assist the instructor in the preparation and presentation of laboratory or recitation material in an undergraduate course. A maximum of 6 credit hours of EFB 495, and 3 credit hours relating to any single assisted course, may apply toward graduation requirements. Fall and Spring. GPA at ESF of 3.0 or higher, and permission of instructor.
Previous completion of the course being assisted (with a grade of B or higher), a
EFB 496Topics/Envrn&Forest Bio1-3
Experimental, interdisciplinary or special coursework in biology for undergraduate students. Subject matter and method of presentation varies from semester to semester. May be repeated for additional credit. Fall, Spring, Maymester or Summer. For sections taught during Maymester or summer session, appropriate tuition and fees apply in addition to travel and lodging costs.
One hour of presentations and discussion per week. A topic in environmental and forest biology will be emphasized and its importance to contemporary issues will be addressed. Fall or Spring.
Independent research by advanced undergraduate student in topic related to environmental biology, conducted at SUNY-ESF or outside institution. EFB-based faculty member serves as student's research sponsor; EFB-based faculty member or scientist at outside institution serves as research supervisor. Students shall report their activities to their instructor on a weekly basis for the duration of the course. Final written report to academic sponsor serves as basis for grade. Fall, Spring, Summer. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
A five- to 10-day trip to: 1) agencies engaged in biological research, management and administration; or 2) regions or areas of unusual biological interest. A final report is required. Additional fees required to cover cost of travel and lodging during field portion of course. Tuition charges will apply to sections offered during Maymester and summer sessions. Fall, Spring, Maymester or Summer.
Three hours of discussion/lecture per week. Explores the growing problem of invasive species as a leading threat to global biodiversity. Topics include: invasion pathways and mechanisms, community resistance, biological control, effects on ecosystems, law and policy as management tools, prediction and risk assessment, and interactions with anthropogenic environmental change. Spring. SUNY ESF | 337 | Course Catalog
Three hours of lecture/discussion per week. Introduction to major plant defensive strategies and counter-adaptation by herbivores. Costs and consequences of herbivory and evaluation of contemporary plant defense models. Direct and indirect linkage of plant-herbivore interactions with higher trophic levels, and effects on population and community dynamics. Plant-herbivore interactions and anthropogenic global change. Fall (Even years). Prerequisite(s): Introductory courses in ecology and evolution.
One lecture (1.5 hr) per week coupled with a period of intensive hands-on field study over spring break in a tropical country. Principles of tropical ecology, nature conservation, and sustainable resource management are presented in class and during field trips to a variety of tropical terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems such as tropical rain forests, cloud forests, seasonally dry forests, freshwater rivers, coral reefs and mangroves. Comparisons with north temperate ecosystems are made. Counts as Field-Experience Directed Elective in EFB. Spring. Appropriate fees apply in addition to travel and lodging costs. Prerequisite: One year of college biology and a general ecology course. Instructor permission and payment of a nonrefundable travel deposit are required prior to registration.
Three hours of field work or laboratory analysis each week. Two additional field trips on weekends; time outside of class devoted to an independent project. Students will become proficient in standard field and laboratory analyses used in limnology; field trips to diverse local aquatic habitats; development of an independent project. Fall. Prerequisites: EFB 424, 624 or equivalent must be taken concurrently or previously.
Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Examines interacting biotic and abiotic components of lotic ecosystems, focusing on New York State. Integrates fluvial geomorphology, hydrology, and biology to explore stream structure and function. Students collect and identify stream biota, characterize stream channel properties, and analyze data for conservation and management applications. Semester-long community engagement project develops leadership, communication, networking, and outreach skill. Prerequisite: One semester of General Ecology (EFB320), or equivalent.
Three hours of lecture per week. An examination of the structure and function of various freshwater wetlands. Ecologic principles that broadly apply to all wetland ecosystems are examined and contrasted with terrestrial systems. The effect of management activities on, and the management potential of, wetlands are also examined. Spring. Prerequisite: EFB 320.
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Diversity, ecology and integrated management of insect pests of forested ecosystems. Additional topics include invasive species, climate change and current research topics. Intended for students in Environmental and Forest Biology and Forest Resources Management. Fall, even years. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 351 and EFB 55l. SUNY ESF | 338 | Course Catalog
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Basic insect diversity, ecology and pest management with an emphasis on common insect pests of the northeastern United States. Additional topics include invasive species, climate change and current research topics. Intended for students in Environmental Biology and Forest Health. Fall, even years. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 352 and EFB 552.
Two hours of lecture, three hours of laboratory/field work per week and a weekend field trip. An introduction to the identification, life histories and ecology of aquatic insects, with emphasis on genera found in the Northeastern United States. Includes a consideration of the functional role of insects in aquatic systems, and current avenues of research. Intended for seniors and graduate students pursuing interests in entomology, fisheries and wildlife, forestry, limnology and general ecology. Fall. Prerequisite: One course in entomology or permission of instructor.
Eighty minute weekly seminar in semester,1-week (7 days) required spring break field trip. Exploration of Indigenous-led conservation, focusing on the Haí#zaqv Nation (west coast Canada). Core concepts include Indigenous-led stewardship, cross-cultural research and collaboration, role of governance in stewardship, and evolving relationships with other governments. Field trip to Haí#zaqv Territory to explore concepts and case studies in situ. Offered in alternate years.
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Lectures introduce the identification and classification of the important orders and families of insects, along with the concepts and practice of sys-tematics. In laboratories students become familiar with pertinent taxonomic literature and keys, based in part on a required collection. Fall. Prerequisite: EFB 351 or EFB 352.
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Study of the life processes in insects; introduction to modern physiological instrumentation and laboratory methods. Spring.
Three hours of lecture and one hour discussion/seminar per week. Introduction to contemporary concepts of toxicology and to scientific basis for regulations and personal decisions about toxic health hazards. For students in natural or social sciences of environmental relevance. Topics include xenobiotic load, co-evolution of plant/animal defenses, chemical interactions, animal tests and risk assessment. Additional reading assignments and discussions. Fall. Prerequisites: General biology and general chemistry. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 400 and EFB 600.
Two hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. Theories behind techniques in molecular biology are introduced in lecture. Laboratory includes the extraction and quantification of genomic and plasmid DNA, agarose gel electrophoresis, restriction digestion, ligation, bacterial transformation, DNA sequencing and PCR. Additional topics in molecular biology are presented by the students. Fall. Prerequisites: One year of Introductory Biology, one year of Introductory Chemistry, Genetics. Note: Credit will not be granted for both BTC 401 and EFB 601. SUNY ESF | 339 | Course Catalog
Two hours of lecture per week. This course focuses on microbes in their environment including the environmental factors that shape microbial communities and how microbes, in turn, change their environment. An in-depth survey of contemporary topics in microbial ecology including nutrient limitations; carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and metal cycling; microbial degradation of recalcitrant compounds; microbial influence on climate; and methods in microbial ecology including metagenomics and fluorescent microscopy. Spring (odd years). Credit will not be given for both 402 and 602. Prerequisites: EFB 303, a similar microbiology course, or instructor permission is required.
Three hours of lecture and discussion per week. Introduction to perspectives of indigenous people on environmental and natural resources management issues, including tribal forestry, fisheries, biocultural restoration, conservation strategies, climate change and treaty rights. Integrates scientific and indigenous worldviews and knowledge systems. Spring. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 305 and EFB 605.
Three hours of lecture with discussion per week. Centers on chemical signals among organisms from microbes to man as they affect ecology, physiology and behavior; and as they can be utilized for agriculture, pest management and animal husbandry. Spring. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 612 and EFB 412/ FCH 440.
Three hours of lecture, discussions, and in class activities per week. Introduction to marine organisms and systems, using the principles of population, community and ecosystem ecology. Hands-on demonstrations, discussions, presentations, interactive activities and lectures allow study of major marine habitats (e.g., intertidal, pelagic, coral reefs, deep sea), the increasing human impacts on marine environments, and potential solutions. Additional one hour of seminar discussion. Spring, even years. Prerequisites: One year general biology and one semester general ecology or equivalents. Credit will not be granted for both EFB 423 and EFB 623.
Three hours of lecture per week, with additional hands-on activities during the semester. An introduction to the geology, physics, chemistry and biology of inland waters (lotic and lentic); effects of natural and anthropogenic perturbations are explored. Students develop a case study or exercise on a limnological issue. Fall. Prerequisites: Introductory courses in physics, chemistry, and ecology, or permission of instructor. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 424 and EFB 624.
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Transgenic plants are currently being produced to improve agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and remediate environmental problems. Students are taught the principles of gene structure and regulation, gene cloning, transformation of plant species, and current applications. Format includes lectures, discussions, student presentations, literature review, and a detailed laboratory project. Spring. Prerequisites: EFB 307 and EFB 325 or equivalents. Note: Credit will not be granted for both BTC 425 and EFB 625. SUNY ESF | 340 | Course Catalog
Two hours of lecture and discussion and three hours of laboratory per week. Introduction to plant tissue culture for biotechnology research and as a propagation method. Emphasis will be on learning laboratory instrumentation and techniques for establishing cell cultures, producing transgenic cell lines, and regenerating whole plants. In addition to the scheduled lab exercises, an independent micropropagation or transformation project will be required. Fall. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. Note: Credit will not be granted for BTC 426 and FOR/EFB 626.
Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory instruction per week. This course offers a dynamic approach to the study of plant structure by understanding how cells, tissues and organs are formed using concepts and tools from genetics and molecular biology. Laboratory involves hands-on activities using current techniques. Students will give oral presentation on a topic relevant to the course. Fall. Prerequisite: one year introductory biology. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 427 and EFB 627.
Two hours of lecture per week and three hours of lab. A critical study of the physiological processes of plants including water relations, photosynthesis, mineral assimilation, hormones, and responses to the environment. Spring. Credit will not be granted for both EFB429 and EFB629. Prerequisites: One full year of biology (EFB101/102 and EFB 103/104). One full year of chemistry (FCH 150/151 and FCH 152/153).
A summer field course followed by a weekly seminar and workshop during the Fall. Will travel in Mesoamerica. Will examine degraded and restored ecosystems. Will travel on public transportation and stay in low-cost hostels. Will use contemporary problems as source material for course projects. Each student will work individually with the instructor to develop an approach to explore a novel research direction for ecosystem restoration. Continuation of restoration project project designs and analysis from the field trip will be part of the coursework after returning to Syracuse. The course will explore restoration strategies in many different ecosystems. Will consider restoration needs in less developed countries, and how that shapes design and evaluation. Course fee. Fall. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Diversity, evolution, and systematics of flowering plants with emphasis on flower structures and reproductive strategies. Flowering plant identification skills are built from examination of a broad diversity of species from major globally-distributed families with particular focus on flora of the Northeastern U.S. Students prepare professional presentations and lead discussion on current research issues in flowering plant diversity, evolution, and systematics. Fall. Prerequisite(s): General Biology I and II or permission of instructor.
Two hours of discussion and two hours of laboratory each week. Two field trips. Introduction to sexual (seed) and asexual (cuttings, budding, grafting, layering, tissue culture, etc.) techniques for reproducing plants. Development, delivery and evaluation of lecture content, active-learning classroom activity, and laboratory content will introduce students to digital instructional SUNY ESF | 341 | Course Catalog
Three hours per week of lecture and discussion. An overview of the ecology of ducks, geese and swans from the perspective of life history events (i.e., breeding, migration, and wintering ecology). Contemporary strategies used in conservation of waterfowl populations and their habitats. Credit cannot be given for both EFB438 and EFB638. Prerequisites: General Ecology or permission of instructor
Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Fundamentals of the morphology, taxonomy, life histories, ecology and symbiotic relationships of fungi. Fall. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 440 and EFB 640.
Three hours of lecture and discussion per week. Impacts of global changes in climate, biodiversity, land-use, and biogeochemical cycles on the structure and function of terrestrial plant communities and ecosystems. Global change impacts are examined across a wide range of spatial and temporal scales, from ecophysiological processes occurring at the scale of a leaf, to global patterns of primary productivity and biodiversity. Spring. Prerequisite: EFB 320 General Ecology or equivalent. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 445 and EFB 645.
Two hours of lecture per week and one three-hour laboratory or field trip. A study of taxonomic diversity, ecological adaptations and the roles of bryophytes in ecosystems. Spring. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 446 and EFB 646.
Three hours per week of lecture, discussion, and field demonstrations. Contemporary techniques in wetlands conservation and management with a focus on sustaining wetland-dependent wildlife. Includes a survey of conservation strategies used and stakeholders involved throughout North America and beyond. Practice in project development and supervision. A half-day weekend field trip is required. Spring (even years) Credit will not be given for both EFB449 and EFB649.
Two hours of lecture/discussion and three hours of laboratory experience per week. Landscape Ecology focuses on spatial patterning - its development and relevance to ecological processes. Course introduces the foundations, issues, and analytical tools in Landscape Ecology through discussion of literature, GIS exercises, and an independent research project. Fall (even years).
Introductory course in Geographic Information Systems, or equivalent.
EFB 653Parasitology3
Two hours of lecture/discussion per week, three hours laboratory per week. Diversity, ecology, and impact of parasites of ecological, medical, and veterinary importance. Emphasis on identification, life history, control, host-parasite interactions and evolution, population patterns, and parasite communities. Students write a review paper and present on a parasitic disease. Fall. SUNY ESF | 342 | Course Catalog
Two hours of lecture/computer lab per week. Focuses on building foundational R skills for students without a background in computer science or engineering. The basics of R are covered: operators, data classes/structures, data import/export, plotting data, summarizing data, and merging data. Intermediate-level topics are also covered including conditionals, loops, and custom functions. Students will apply learned skills to original, student-provided data for the final project. Spring. Students are responsible for providing an original dataset to use in the class.
Three hours of in-person lecture/discussion. An exploration of successful conservation and resource management initiatives. Concepts and methods include examination of community- and Indigenous-led efforts, metrics for measuring success, predictors of and preconditions for their development and maintenance, and applications to students’ future initiatives. Students provide facilitation and mentorship role to undergraduates, and create a synthetic term project. Note: Credit will not be granted for both 455 and 655. Fall
Three hours of lecture, discussion and exercises per week, and an independent project. An introduction to the physiology of adaptation to the physical and biotic environments, including animal energetics, biology of body size, and physiological constraints on animal life history. Fall and Spring. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 462 and EFB 662.
Three hours of lecture and discussion per week. Introduction to principles of ecotoxicology and to contemporary scientific research. For students in natural or social sciences of environmental relevance. Topics include chemical fate in animals, and effects on individuals, populations, and ecosystems. Credit will not be given for both EFB463 and EFB663. Two semesters of General Biology; two semesters of General Chemistry; General Ecology
One and three-quarter hours of lecture and discussion per week and three field experiences. Guiding principles for ecological restoration of freshwater aquatic ecosystems focusing on effects of nutrient loading, sedimentation, flow alteration, and habitat loss. Factors leading to loss of aquatic resources and effectiveness of techniques to restore habitat and fauna are analyzed. Student presentation of a relevant topic and field excursions to perturbed areas and recent restoration projects are required. Fall, odd years. Prerequisites: none. Directed toward graduate students in areas involving aquatic sciences and management.
Field and lecture course. This lecture and field course explores adaptations of animals and plants for surviving the winter in northern latitudes. The course presents species identification, natural history, behavior, ecology and winter strategies. One hour per week of asynchronous on-line instruction, plus ten-days of field instruction during one weekend in February and during March break in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. Credit will not be given for both EFB 484 and SUNY ESF | 343 | Course Catalog
Three hours of lecture per week. Introduction to the biology, ecology, quantitative assessments, conservation, and management of fish species targeted in fisheries. Includes models and empirical studies of population dynamics, life history theory, population growth, mortality, production, exploitation, and management. Critical synthesis project required. Fall. Prerequisites: Calculus and either Limnology or Ichthyology or permission of instructor. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 487 and EFB 687.
Three hours of lecture per week. A detailed examination of waterfowl ecology and management. The course is structured around the annual cycle, focusing on strategies of survival and reproduction; management aspects are treated throughout the course. Fall and Spring.
Three hours of lecture/discussion and one three-hour laboratory per week; one Saturday field trip required. Application of ecological concepts including succession and population biology to wildlife management planning and program assessment. Students are exposed to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service habitat evaluation procedures and fundamentals of population modeling. Fall. Note: Credit will not be granted for both EFB 493 and EFB 693.
Experimental, interdisciplinary or special coursework in biology for graduate students. Subject matter and method of presentation varies from semester to semester. Fall, Spring, and Summer.
Special instruction, conference, advanced study, and research in selected subject areas. A written report required. Check Schedule of Courses for details. Fall and Spring.
Seminar discussions of subjects of interest and importance in environmental and forest biology. Seminar offerings are available in most subdisciplinary areas. Check Schedule of Courses for details. Fall and Spring.
Individual advanced study of selected special problems in environmental and forest biology. Offered by arrangement with individual faculty. A written report required. Students shall report their activities to their instructor on a weekly basis for the duration of the course. Fall and Spring.
Professional experience which applies, enriches and/or complements formal coursework. Students shall report their activities to their instructor on a weekly basis for the duration of the course. Graded on an "S/U" basis. Fall, Spring and Summer. SUNY ESF | 344 | Course Catalog
Investigation leading to the completion of a research-oriented thesis or to an application-oriented project. Graded on an "S/U" basis. Fall, Spring and Summer.
