Program Overview

Biology Program: Ecology and Conservation of Coral Reefs

The Biology department at Wake Forest University offers a four-credit-hour course, BIO 311: Ecology and Conservation of Coral Reefs, taught by Dr. Miles Silman, a renowned biology professor, ecologist, and researcher of Amazonian Andean trees and coral ecology in Belize.

Course Description

This capstone class pulls together all the threads learned in previous courses, from molecular biology to earth science. The course focuses on both biotic (living) and abiotic (nonliving) components of the coral reef ecosystem. Students learn about the productive and diverse ecosystems of coral reefs and how they are at risk due to various anthropogenic effects.

Course Structure

Throughout the course, students read and discuss research papers weekly, leading up to the lab component: a one-week trip to Lighthouse Reef in Belize. In preparation, students are encouraged to become scuba certified, which can be completed at Wake Forest's campus pool. In the classroom, students memorize different fish, sponge, and coral species living at Lighthouse Reef.

Fieldwork and Research

The trip's cohort spends around 14-16 hours a day in the water, conducting research and surveys. Students participate in activities such as:

• Plankton tows in the day versus the night to study the composition of zooplankton and phytoplankton
• Fish surveys to understand the dynamics of coral reef systems
• Visits to the famous Great Blue Hole, an enormous sinkhole off the coast of Belize

Conservation Efforts

The course emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts, discussing the challenges and opportunities in protecting coral reefs. Students learn about the impact of human activities on coral reefs, including climate change, ocean acidification, and pollution.

Takeaways

The course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of coral reef ecosystems and the importance of conservation. As noted by Dr. Silman, studying coral reefs is empowering, as it highlights the potential for conservation efforts to make a positive impact. Students, such as Meredith Power, emphasize the significance of understanding human impacts on coral reefs and the need for policies and regulations to protect these ecosystems.