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Course Description
Course Description
Chemical Ecology is the study of interactions between organisms (intra or interspecific) that involve some form of chemical communication. Most people have heard of pheromones, but there are many types of pheromones. For example there are sex pheromones, trail following pheromones (like with ants!), alarm pheromones, and more! There are other types of chemical signals like kairomones, allomones, etc. You will learn all of these terms as well as specific examples of each. You will also learn about how these chemicals are identified and quantified.
We will study chemical communication ranging from bacteria to humans. So, you will get a broad view of chemical communication in nature.
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Text Book and Lab Manual
Text Book and Lab Manual
Currently, there is not a textbook fitting for this course because I cover such a broad range of topics. So, readings will be assigned from primary literature. This will serve as your primary reference for this course, along with lecture notes and materials. You are expected to read all of these articles! Readings will be posted on Canvas, and lectures will directly reflect those readings in addition to providing additional background information. Exam questions will be taken from oral class discussions, lecture notes, the readings, and the lab.
Learning Objectives:
Learning Objectives:
Students in this course will:
Students in this course will:
Gain an understanding of intra/interspecific interactions.
Gain an understanding of the types of chemicals used in chemical interactions, and their function(s).
Learn the basic methodologies that allow us to identify and quantify chemicals in different organisms.
Develop a broad understanding of the ecological functions of chemicals produced by organisms.
Understand how organisms acquire/resist chemical defenses, and how coevolution may play a role in this.
Understand how chemical ecology is a part of interactions in human populations as well as the ecosystem as a whole.
Understand the importance of chemical ecology in terms of physiology and evolution.
Canvas
Canvas
This will be my main means of communication with you. On the site for this class, you will find the Powerpoint presentations for my lectures, any assigned readings that are not part of your text book, assignments, exams, quizzes, etc. I will also post relevant announcements here, so please check this regularly. There is a free app available that will allow you to get notifications when the Canvas sites for your courses are updated. If you have the technology for this, you may consider downloading the app.
Slack
Slack
Slack will be used to enhance communication between you, your classmates, and myself. I will use it to communicate with you, but it will also be a way for you to contact me, share cool things related to the course, and ask questions. Download Slack as an app on your computer, phone, or tablet. You can also access our Slack page through a web browser. Login using your CSUB credentials.
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