BLY 101* Life Science I 4 cr
The first of a two-semester sequence designed for the non-major. The basic principles of
biological phenomena are emphasized by examples relating to the human. Cell structure and
function, energy, and organ systems are studied. Fee.
BLY 102* Life Science II 4 cr
A continuation of BLY 101. Organ systems, cell reproduction, plant and animal
development, heredity, evolution, and ecology are studied. Prerequisite: BLY 101. Fee.
BLY 121* General Biology I 4 cr
A study of molecular composition of cells, cell structure, metabolism, genetics,
microevolution, Monera, Protista, and Fungi. Students with an ACT composite score of less than
19 should first successfully complete BLY 101 before enrolling in 121. BLY 101 credit may be
applied as elective credit toward a degree but cannot be included in the 28 hours required for a
biology major. Fee.
BLY 122 * General Biology II 4 cr
A study of plants, major invertebrate phyla, vertebrate morphology, plant and animal
physiology, animal behavior, macroevolution, and ecology. Prerequisite: BLY 121. Fee.
NOTE: BLY 121 and 122, or the equivalents, are prerequisites to all courses numbered
300 or above except by permission of the Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences. A year
of college chemistry, or advanced high school preparation in biology and chemistry is highly
recommended for these two introductory courses.
Credit will not be allowed for both the non-majors sequence (BLY 101/102) and the
majors sequence (BLY 121/122.)
BLY 134* Ocean Science 4 cr
An introduction to physical, chemical, and biological oceanography. Prerequisite: BLY
101 (usually taught in the spring semester).
BLY 151*, 152* Anatomy and Physiology I, II 4 cr each
Structure and function of the normal human body, ranging from cells through systems,
with emphasis on integration and regulation at all levels. Take in sequence. (151 usually taught
in Fall & Spring, 152 in Spring & Summer semesters.) Fee.
BLY 163* Commercial Marine Fisheries of Alabama 2 cr
This course is designed to provide an introduction to the exploitation and biology of
economically important vertebrates and invertebrates of Alabama and the adjoining Gulf of
Mexico, with emphasis on management processes of major species. Laboratory activities include
visits to local processing plants and a trawling expedition aboard a research vessel.
BLY 205 Introduction to Environmental Science 3 cr
Environmental science, including the fundamentals required to understand how
ecosystems work, how environmental modifications affect ecosystems and living things, and
how living things affect their environment. Topics to be emphasized include the effects of
pollution, habitat modification, and other environmental changes, on ecosystems, plants, wildlife,
man, outdoor recreation, and the future. Public health and medical effects will also be
considered. Many topics covered are of special significance to this region: wetlands, the effects
of dredging and filling, artificial lake construction, development, agricultural and forestry
practices on ecosystems, plants, and animals. Prerequisite: college biology, or permission of
instructor.
BLY 207* Biology of Aging 3 cr
A descriptive review of processes of aging. Emphasis is placed on studying structural and
functional changes that could occur with increase in chronological age. Prerequisite: BLY 101,
equivalent course, or permission of instructor (usually taught in the fall, spring, and summer
semesters).
BLY 213* Microbiology 3 cr
A survey of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses with emphasis on host-microbe
interactions, immune responses, and control mechanisms. Prerequisite: BLY 101 or BLY 152.
BLY 214* Laboratory Studies in Microbiology 1 cr
A series of laboratory experiments designed to provide practical experiments in basic
microbial techniques. Prerequisite: BLY 213 or concurrent enrollment.
BLY 215* Human Genetics 3 cr
For students who desire knowledge of human genetics either to further their career goals
or to enhance their liberal-arts education. Prerequisite: BLY 101 or permission of chair.
BLY 290 Special Topics 3-5 cr
Introductory study of special biological subjects not treated in other departmental courses.
May be repeated once when content varies. Does not fulfill "category" requirements for majors.
Prerequisites: BLY 101 for non-majors' topics, BLY 121 for major topics.
BLY 311 Genetics 4 cr
Principles and processes involved in the transmission of heredity traits. Mendelian
principles are correlated with modern genetic concepts. Enrollees must register for recitation
section. Genetics Laboratory (BLY 312) is recommended but not required. Category A or D.
Prerequisites: BLY 121 (usually taught in the spring semester).
BLY 312 Laboratory Studies in Genetics 2 cr
Designed to illustrate classical and molecular principles through laboratory experiences.
Studies in eukaryotic and prokaryotic genetics are utilized. Prerequisite: BLY 311 or concurrent
enroll-ment in BLY 311 (usually taught in the spring semester). Fee.
BLY 314 Molecular Microbiology (W) 4 cr
Study of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms and their relationship to their
environment. Molecular, genetic, and bio-chemical aspects of each will be emphasized.
Prerequisite: CH 131.
BLY 325 Ecology 4 cr
Basic ecological principles operating in terrestrial, fresh-water, and marine ecosystems.
Field trips to representative biotic communities of the Mobile region constitute an integral part of
the course. Category D (usually taught in the fall semester).
BLY 332 Introduction to Non-Vascular Plants 4 cr
A survey of non-vascular plants; algae, fungi, liverworts, and mosses, with emphasis on
morphology and taxonomy. Category B.
BLY 341 Cell Biology 3 cr
A course designed to integrate cell structure and function: the study of the ultrastructure,
organization, physiology, genetics, and other functions of the cell. Prerequisite: CH 131.
Category A (usually taught in the fall semester).
BLY 342 Cell Biology Laboratory (W) 2 cr
Laboratory experience with instrumentation and techniques utilized in modern cell
biology research including organellar isolation, protein analysis, and microscopic techniques.
Prerequisite: BLY 341 or concurrent enrollment (usually taught in the fall semester).
BLY 345 Dendrology 4 cr
Collection, identification, and ecology of the woody plants of the United States, with
emphasis on species indigenous to the Mobile Bay region. Category B (usually taught in the fall
semester).
BLY 351 Animal Physiology 4 cr
Principles of general physiology. Emphasis on physiological functions of the nervous,
muscular, endocrine, excretory, vascular, and respiratory systems. Category A.
BLY 352 Biology of Terrestrial Vertebrates 4 cr
Evolution, characteristics, classification, life history, ecology, and behavior of
amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Laboratory and field work emphasize local species.
Category C (usually taught in alternate spring semester).
BLY 354 General Entomology 4 cr
Classification and habits of insects, including collection, preservation, and identification
of those occurring in South Alabama. Category C.
BLY 360 The Invertebrates 4 cr
Detailed study of the invertebrate phyla: taxonomy, ecology, and phylogenetic
relationship. Terrestrial, fresh-water, and marine forms are studied. Category C.
BLY 363 Vertebrate Embryology 4 cr
Avian and amphibians histogenesis and organogenesis from fertilization to time of
histological maturity. Category C.
BLY 365 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy 5 cr
Anatomy and evolution of the organ systems of the major vertebrate groups. Laboratory
includes dissections of dogfish sharks and cats. Category C (usually taught in the fall semester).
BLY 367+ Marine Biology 4 cr
Local marine environments and the classification, morphology, and ecology of the locally
occurring flora and fauna. Category D (usually taught in the summer semester).
NOTE: Students enrolling in Biology courses numbered 400 or above must have
completed a minimum of twelve semester hours in biology, or the equivalent.
BLY 430+ Marine Botany 4 cr
A general survey of marine algae and vascular and non-vascular plants associated with
the marine environment. Distribution, identification, structure, ecology, and reproduction will be
considered. Course offered only through Marine Environmental Science Consortium. Category B
(usually taught in the summer semester).
BLY 431 Plant Physiology 4 cr
A critical study of higher plant function. This course includes a study of water relations,
plant biochemistry, and plant development. Category A (usually taught in the spring semester).
BLY 432 Morphology of Vascular Plants 4 cr
Morphological features and possible relationships of psilophytes, club mosses, horsetails,
ferns, and seed plants. Illustrated whenever feasible with local plants. Category B.
BLY 433 Taxonomy of Flowering Plants 4 cr
Principles of classification of flowering plants; survey of major plant families; collection
and identification of representative local plants. Field trips. Category B (usually taught in the
spring semester).
BLY 435 Biology of Fungi 4 cr
Identification and morphology of fungi with some emphasis on their relation to human
affairs. Collection required. Category B (usually taught in the spring semester).
BLY 440 Biochemistry I 3 cr
Principles of carbohydrate, protein, lipid, and nucleotide chemistry; membrane
phenomena; enzyme kinetics and bioenergetics. Pre-requisite: CH 223. Also cross-listed as CH
440. Category A (usually taught in the fall semester).
BLY 441 Biochemistry II 3 cr
Course is sequential to Biochemistry I and focuses on reactions and regulation of
intermediary metabolism; molecular genetics, hormonal action, and nutrition. Prerequisite: BLY
440. Requires special permission. Also cross-listed as CH 441. Category A (usually taught in the
spring semester).
BLY 443 Laboratory Studies in Biochemistry 2 cr
Course familiarizes the student with basic laboratory techniques commonly employed in
biochemical research. Prerequisite: BLY 440 or concurrent enrollment in BLY 441. Requires
special permission. Also cross-listed as CH 443. Fee.
BLY 450 Animal Behavior 3 cr
Introductory animal behavior from a biological viewpoint, emphasizing behavioral
adaptation of animals to their environment. Orientation, migration, rhythms, communication,
territoriality, experimental techniques, and ecological and evolutionary aspects of behavior will
be considered. Category D (usually taught in the spring semester).
BLY 451+ Marine Vertebrate Zoology 4 cr
A study of marine vertebrates, with emphasis on fishes; their systematics, zoogeography,
and ecology. Category C (usually taught in the summer semester).
BLY 452 Biology of Fishes 4 cr
The evolution of major fish groups with emphasis on modern classification, speciation
and zoogeography, comparative anatomy, and physiology.
BLY 453+ Coastal Ornithology 4 cr
Study of coastal and pelagic birds with emphasis on ecology, taxonomy, and distribution.
This course includes identification, population dynamics, and behavior of coastal birds and
overnight trips to offshore islands. Category C (usually taught in alternate summer semester).
BLY 455 Ornithology (W) 4 cr
Principles of classification, structure, distribution, migration, natural history, and
adaptations of birds within an ecological context. Field & laboratory identification of birds by
habitat, size, form, color, and sound. Some field activities may occur at times other than regularly
scheduled laboratory hours. Category C (usually taught in alternate spring semester).
BLY 459 General Parasitology 3 cr
Principles of parasitology and a survey of all major parasitic groups. Category C (usually
taught in the fall semester).
BLY 463 Vertebrate Histology 4 cr
Microscopic anatomy of organ systems, with emphasis on human tissues. Category C.
BLY 471+ Marine Invertebrate Zoology 4 cr
A study of the natural history, systematics, and morphology of marine invertebrates.
Category C (usually taught in the summer semester).
BLY 474+ Introduction to Oceanography 4 cr
A general introduction to the oceans, with emphasis on chemical, physical, and
geological processes, and their relation to biological systems.
BLY 475+ Marine Ecology 4 cr
The relationship of marine organisms to their environment. Category D (usually taught in
the summer semester).
BLY 478+ Marsh Ecology (W) 4 cr
A study of floral and faunal elements of various marsh communities. Interaction of
physical and biological factors will be emphasized. Course is structured to provide actual field
experience in addition to lecture material. Category D (usually taught in the summer semester).
BLY 481+ Marine Technical Methods 2 cr
An introduction to instruments and procedures normally used aboard a marine research
vessel, including physical, biological, chemical, and geological parameter measures and sample
collection (usually taught in the summer semester).
BLY 483+ Field Marine Science I 2 cr
The Field Marine Science course consists of a 10-day field exercise in the tropical
southeastern Gulf of Mexico (Florida Keys) and the temperate north Atlantic. Sites alternate
annually. Faculty members with diverse interests accompany the students, participate in pre-trip
readings and discussion sessions and evaluate the product developed by each student.
Prerequisite: Senior or graduate standing in a major related to marine sciences and permission of
the instructor.
BLY 488+ Field Marine Science II 2 cr
The Field Marine Science course consists of a 10-day field exercise in the tropical
southeastern Gulf of Mexico (Florida Keys) and the temperate north Atlantic. Sites alternate
annually. Faculty members with diverse interests accompany the students, participate in pre-trip
readings and discussion sessions and evaluate the product developed by each student.
Prerequisite: Senior or graduate standing in a major related to marine sciences and permission of
the instructor.
BLY 490 Special Topics 3-5 cr
Small, interested groups of students will study specialized topics not generally listed in
the course offerings. Faculty and visiting professors will offer courses in their areas of
specialization. Prerequisite: Permission of the department.
BLY 494 Directed Studies 1-4 cr
This course is designed to enable the capable student to pursue independent research
under the direction of a member of the faculty. Prerequisite: Permission of department.
* Credit not granted toward a major in biology.
+ Course is offered only at Marine Environmental Sciences Consortium, Dauphin Island,
Alabama.
BLY 511 Developmental Biology 3 cr
The genetic and biochemical interactions present in the early embryonic development of
higher organisms. Emphasis on animal development. Prerequisites: BLY 311, 341, 363.
BLY 515 Ecotoxicology 3 cr
Dynamics and effects of toxic agents on ecosystems. Emphasis will be on application of
toxicological principles to the environment, current problems, and state of art methodologies in
evaluation of environmental health.
BLY 526 Limnology 3 cr
Biological, chemical, and physical processes that characterize aquatic ecosystems, as well
as techniques used in water management and pollution control. Prerequisite: Ecology.
BLY 530 Marine Microbial Ecology 3 cr
A general survey of the types of microorganisms found in the marine environment.
Emphasis will be on the interaction of microorganisms with each other and with their
environment. In particular, the role of microorganisms in carbon cycling and biogeochemical
processes will be stressed. Readings from current literature will expose students to the latest
techniques and research. Cross listed with Marine Sciences.
BLY 533 Topics in Parasitology 3 cr
Theoretical aspects of parasite ecology, evolution, and physiology, with emphasis on
current literature.
BLY 535/435 Biology of Fungi (Mycology) 3 cr
Identification and morphology of fungi with some emphasis on their relation to human
affairs. Collection required. Credit for both BLY 535 and BLY 435 is not allowed.
BLY 540/440 Biochemistry I 3 cr
Principles of carbohydrate, protein, lipid, and nucleotide chemistry; membrane
phenomena; enzyme kinetics and bioenergetics. Pre-requisite: one year of organic chemistry.
Credit for both BLY 540 and BLY 440 is not allowed.
BLY 541/441 Biochemistry II 3 cr
Sequential to Biochemistry I and focuses on reactions and regulation of intermediary
metabolism; molecular genetics, hormonal action, and nutrition. Prerequisite: BLY 540/440.
Credit for both BLY 541 and BLY 441 is not allowed.
BLY 543/443 Laboratory Studies in Biochemistry 3 cr
Familiarizes the student with basic laboratory techniques commonly employed in
biochemical research. Prerequisite: BLY 541 Credit for both BLY 543 and BLY 443 is not
allowed.
BLY 544 Vascular Plant Systematics 4 cr
Evolution and classification of major groups of higher plants with con-sideration of
sources of taxonomic evidence, specialization, nomen-clature, and identification. Prerequisite:
BLY 433 or equivalent.
BLY 545 Aquatic Vascular Plants 4 cr
Classification, identification, and basic ecology of vascular plants occurring in fresh and
saline water, especially in the Mobile region. Prerequisite: BLY 433.
BLY 548+ Marine Biogeochemical Processes 2 cr
This course will examine the interactions between biological, chemical and geological
processes in the marine environment. By first reviewing the cycling of several of the major
elements (e.g. carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, and iron) in the sea; and examining how
these cycles differ between various marine ecosystems. The focus will be on developing an
understanding of how biogeochemical processes serve to regulate ecosystem function in these
various habitats.
BLY 550/450 Animal Behavior 3 cr
A study of behavior from a biological point of view, with emphasis on experimentation
and behavioral ecology. Credit for both BLY 550 and BLY 450 is not allowed.
BLY 551/451+ Marine Vertebrate Zoology 4 cr
A study of marine vertebrates with emphasis on fishes; their systematics, zoogeography,
and ecology. Students will have an opportunity to assemble a collection of vertebrate species.
Credit for both BLY 551 and BLY 451 is not allowed.
BLY 552/452 Biology of Fishes 3 cr
The evolution of major fish groups with emphasis on modern classification,
specialization and zoogeography, comparative anat-omy, and physiology. Prerequisite:
Vertebrate Zoology or Fishery Biology. Credit for both BLY 552 and BLY 452 is not allowed.
BLY 571/471+ Marine Invertebrate Zoology 4 cr
A study of the natural history, systematics and morphology of marine invertebrates.
Credit for both BLY 571 and BLY 471 is not allowed.
BLY 573+ Oceanology of the Gulf of Mexico 2 cr
A descriptive study of the oceanology of the Gulf of Mexico and adjacent waters,
including coastal zone, continental shelf, and deep ocean. Prerequisite: Degree in a science.
BLY 575/475+ Marine Ecology 4 cr
The relationship of marine organisms to their environment. Credit for both BLY 575 and
BLY 475 is not allowed.
BLY 576+ Marine Benthic Ecology 3 cr
Comprehensive examination of Benthic Faunal populations, with respect to major taxa,
community composition, diversity, and limiting environmental factors, with emphasis on local
habitats. Prerequisite: General Biology.
BLY 578/478+ Marsh Ecology 4 cr
Study of floral and faunal elements of various marine marsh communities. Interaction of
physical and biological factors empha-sized. Structured to provide actual field experience in
addition to lecture material. Credit for both BLY 578 and BLY 478 is not allowed.
BLY 580+ Marine Zoogeography 3 cr
Study of physical, chemical, and biological factors influencing the distribution of marine
organisms. Emphasis on the Western North Atlantic Ocean. Prerequisite: Marine Biology.
BLY 582 Classical Ecology 3 cr
An intensive study of the foundation and early concepts of ecology as conceived by
biologists from the late 1800s until 1950. Prerequisite: Ecology or Marine Ecology.
BLY 583/483+ Field Marine Science I 2 cr
An 8-12 day field exercise in representative coastal sites. The field exercise is conducted
in the break prior to the semester of registration for the course. Faculty members with diverse
interests will accompany the students, participate in pre-trip discussions and evaluate the product
developed by each student. Designed to familiarize students with habitats and research
conditions different from those they experience on the Northern Gulf Coast. Field trip locations
selected on the basis of faculty/student interest, economics, and availability of logistical support.
Students pay their room and board costs for the field exercise. Primarily for graduate students,
but advanced undergraduates may enroll with consent of instructor. Both BLY 483/583 and
588/488 may be taken for credit when each is taught in a different environment.
BLY 584 Modern Ecology 3 cr
Advanced study of concepts in ecology covering theories arising from 1950 to the
present. Covers topics such as energy flow, modeling, and problems of the environment.
Prerequisite: Ecology.
BLY 585 Principles and Mechanisms of Evolution 3 cr
Examination of the principles by which changes are effected in biological populations
and study of the principal mechanisms accomplishing these changes.
BLY 587+ Seagrass Ecosystems Ecology 2 cr
Survey of current literature on topics related to the ecology of seagrass ecosystems.
Students will read assigned papers to be analyzed in a faculty-led discussion format.
BLY 588+ Field Marine Science II 2 cr
An 8-12 day field exercise in representative coastal sites. The field exercise is conducted
in the break prior to the semester of registration for the course. Faculty members with diverse
interests will accompany the students, participate in pre-trip discussions and evaluate the product
developed by each student. The course is designed to familiarize students with habitats and
research conditions different from those they experience on the Northern Gulf Coast. Field trip
locations are selected on the basis of faculty and student interest, economics, and availability of
logistical support. Students pay their room and board costs for the field exercise. Primarily for
graduate students, but advanced undergraduates may enroll with consent of instructor. Both BLY
483/583 and 488/588 may be taken for credit when each is taught in a different environment.
BLY 589+ Marine Plankton 3 cr
The course familiarizes the student with the taxonomic breadth of phytoplankton,
bacterioplankton and zooplankton in estuaries, coastal seas and open oceans. Though the focus is
on taxonomic familiarization, basic biology of all major taxa represented in the plankton will be
covered. Students will learn fundamental, as well as "cutting-edge" field, lab and statistical
techniques. Prerequisite: Graduate status in one of the physical or biological sciences.
BLY 590 Special Topics 1-4 cr
Specialized topics not generally listed in the course offerings.
BLY 592 Seminar 1 cr
Recent research in areas of special academic interest to students and faculty.
BLY 594 Directed Studies 1-4 cr
Independent research under the direction of a member of the graduate faculty. Primarily
intended for non-thesis graduate students. A maximum of six credits may be granted for this
course.
BLY 599 Thesis 1-4 cr
Prerequisite: Approval of research prospectus by student's graduate committee.
* Course not counted toward a major in biology.
+ Course is usually offered at Marine Environmental Sciences Consortium, Dauphin Island,
Alabama.

Department of Biological Sciences

College of Arts and Sciences