Studies of marine organisms and their environment, with a focus on barrier islands, estuaries, mangroves, seagrass beds, or coral reefs, depending on the destination of the research trip. To observe marine organisms and their environment, students travel to a destination that is determined each year the course is taught. Possible destinations include: the Gulf Coast Research Lab (GCRL) in Ocean Springs, MS, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, and Calabash Caye Field Station in Belize. This trip entails an additional cost to the student. Laboratory course. Prerequisite: BIOL 220