Concepts, methods, and applications of belowground ecology with emphasis on biotic interactions in soil; roles that aboveground and belowground communities play in regulating the structure and function of terrestrial ecosystems and their responses to global change. Credit will be granted for only one of FRST 512 or APBI 412.

Integration of soil physics, chemistry, and biology in understanding essential soil processes.

The diversity of soil organisms (bacteria, protozoa, fungi, animals, plants) in natural and managed ecosystems; roles in primary production, nutrient cycling, decomposition and reclamation; interactions between soil organisms; responses to environmental change.

Interactions between aquaculture and the environment. Current issues, comparison of systems, species, production methods, environments, and socioeconomics.

Contemporary use of animals for food production, companionship, recreation and science; social and ethical issues concerning human impacts on animals; animals in human culture; protection of animals by society and the law.