MARINE PARASITOLOGY AND DISEASE COURSE DATES June 11, 2018 to June 18, 2018 PREREQUISITES One semester of college-level biology or equivalent. https://www.shoalsmarinelaboratory.org/course/marine-parasitology-and- disease COURSE DESCRIPTION Photo of SML Parasite Ecology Intern working in the lab to extract parasites from a green crab Collin Love, 2017 Parasite Ecology Intern, extracting parasites from a green crab. This course will focus on one of the most diverse and fascinating groups of marine organisms-parasites. The course will explore marine parasites and pathogens at multiple levels, including: (1) the evolutionary perspective with an emphasis on co-evolutionary relationships; (2) parasitic diseases and life cycles (from simple to complex); (3) taxonomic and phylogenetic understanding of parasite and host groups (with a focus on metazoan parasites and hosts); (4) ecological implications of parasitism in marine systems-at the population, community, and ecosystem levels; and (5) the effects of human-induced global change on parasitism in marine communities. Students enrolled in Marine Parasitology and Disease will: Understand science as a way of knowing (i.e. test ideas using evidence gathered from the natural world). Learn fundamental facts, concepts, and theories in marine parasitology and disease. Understand evolutionary and ecological importance of parasites/pathogens in marine systems. Learn preparation and microscopy skills for parasite observations and identifications. Explore host and parasite diversity in the local marine environment.