¹On leave full year.
²Director of the Environmental Studies Program.
³Director of Information Technology Services.

The Department of Biology provides its students with a background in, and an appreciation for, important aspects of classical and modern biology. To provide a broad and comprehensive investigation of the biological sciences, the departmental curriculum emphasizes the study of the biology of plants, animals, and microorganisms at the molecular, cellular, organismal, and population levels of organization. Special facilities include the Perkins Arboretum, the Colby-Marston Bog, a scanning and transmission electron microscope suite, several laboratory microcomputer clusters, a radioisotope laboratory, a clean room, two greenhouses, herbarium, numerous environmental chambers, and animal and aquarium rooms.

Department graduates enroll in graduate programs in biology and in medical schools, dental schools, and veterinary colleges. Others are employed as research assistants, as teachers at the secondary level, and by private firms and government agencies.

The concentration in environmental science is designed to provide students with a background to work in the environmental field or to continue on to graduate study in environmental science, ecology, or one of the other biological disciplines. In recent years, graduates have enrolled in graduate programs in ecology, marine biology, natural resource management, public policy, and environmental health. Others are employed by federal and state agencies, private and public organizations, and consulting firms.

The concentration in cell and molecular biology/biochemistry focuses biology majors on the interdisciplinary field that lies at the interface between biology and chemistry and also prepares students for graduate study or employment in the biomedical fields. Recent graduates have pursued interests in gene therapy, genetic counseling, and biomedical research.

Students interested in teaching are urged to read the "Education" section of the catalogue and to contact a member of the Education Department. Students majoring in biology and preparing for dental, medical, or veterinary schools must take a year of organic chemistry and a year of introductory college physics with laboratory in addition to the courses required for the major; students preparing for graduate study in the biological sciences also should elect these courses.

Colby is a member of a consortium sponsoring the Center for Sustainable Development Studies, through which qualified students are provided the opportunity for a semester of study in Costa Rica. Studies combine biology with social and political issues to address sustainable development problems. See description under "Colby Affiliated Programs." Colby also maintains affiliate status with the School For Field Studies and with the Semester in Environmental Science at the Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole.

Students are encouraged to take courses at summer laboratories and field stations; with prior approval, such courses may be credited toward the major requirement.

General Requirements for all Major Programs
For all major programs offered by the department, the point scale for retention of the major applies to all courses required for the major and all elected biology courses. Courses required for the major may not be taken satisfactory/unsatisfactory. At least seven biology courses with lecture and laboratory components (including at least one course at the 300 level or above) must be taken for the major. One additional biology course (with or without laboratory) at the 300 level or above or independent study must also be taken. A maximum of four credit hours of independent study or field experience and two credit hours of seminar may be counted toward the major. No more than eight credit hours in a semester or 12 credit hours in total from off-campus programs can be counted toward the major programs.

Requirements for the Basic Major in Biology
Thirty-one hours of course work in biology (excluding Advanced Placement credit), including Biology 161, 162, one course with laboratory in plant biology (Biology 211, 214, 216, 235, 252, and 313), and at least one course beyond the introductory level with laboratory in population and evolutionary biology (Biology 211, 212, 257j, 258j, 271, 354, or 358j), at least one course beyond the introductory level with laboratory in organismal biology (Biology 214, 216, 235, 254, 278, 312, 313, 334, 357, 373, or 375), and at least one course beyond the introductory level with laboratory in cell and molecular biology (Biology 232, 238, 252, 274, 279, 315, or 367). Seniors must enroll in Biology 490 in both semesters. In addition, Chemistry 141, 142, Mathematics 121 or 161 or equivalent, and one additional mathematics course numbered 112 or higher (excluding seminars).

Requirements for the Concentration in Environmental Science
Thirty-one hours of course work in biology (excluding Advanced Placement credit), including Biology 161, 162, 271, 352, 493, one course with laboratory in plant biology (Biology 211, 214, 216, 235, 252, and 313), and at least one additional course with laboratory in organismal biology (Biology 214, 216, 235, 254, 278, 312, 313, 334, 357, 373, or 375) and at least one additional course with laboratory in cell and molecular biology (Biology 232, 238, 252, 274, 279, 315, or 367). Seniors must enroll in Biology 490 in both semesters. In addition, Chemistry 141, 142; Mathematics 121 or 161 or equivalent, Mathematics 112 or 231; Economics 133, 231; and two courses selected from the following: Biology 257j, 258j, 354, 358j, Chemistry 217, 241, 242, Environmental Studies 118, 235; Geology 141, 142, Science, Technology, and Society 215, or selected courses from off-campus studies programs. Students are encouraged to take at least one field-oriented program such as a School for Field Studies semester or a similar approved program.

Requirements for the Concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology/Biochemistry
Thirty-one hours of course work in biology (excluding Advanced Placement credit), including Biology 161, 162, 279 (with laboratory), 367, 368, 378, one course with laboratory in plant biology (Biology 211, 214, 216, 235, 252, and 313), and at least one additional course with laboratory in organismal biology (Biology 214, 216, 235, 254, 278, 312, 313, 334, 357, 373, or 375) and at least one additional course with laboratory in population or evolutionary biology (Biology 211, 212, 257j, 258j, 271, 354, or 358j). Seniors must enroll in Biology 490 in both semesters. In addition, Chemistry 141, 142, 241, 242; Mathematics 121 or 161 or equivalent and one additional mathematics course numbered 112 or higher (excluding seminars); and either Physics 141, 142 or one course with laboratory chosen from Biology 232, 238, 252, 274, 315, Chemistry 331. In addition, each concentrator must complete an independent study project equivalent to two (or preferably three) credit hours. This requirement can be satisfied through independent study, January Program, or a summer research project.

Honors Program
Biology majors with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.5 at the end of the junior year are eligible for the Biology Honors Research Program. Honors research projects will be a total of seven-nine credits and will be conducted during each semester of the senior year (and may include Jan Plan). Completion of the honors program will include a written thesis, an oral presentation at the Colby Undergraduate Symposium on Research in Biology, and successful completion of an oral examination given by the student's honors committee. Successful completion of the honors program will result in the degree being awarded "With Honors in Biology."

Course Offerings

112f Heredity and Evolution An introduction to the concepts of heredity and evolution. Lecture only. Does not satisfy the laboratory science distribution requirement. Satisfies the non-laboratory science distribution requirement. Cannot be counted toward the biology major. Credit may not be obtained for both Biology 112 and 162. Three credit hours. N. MR. FOWLES

[115] Biology of Women An introduction to the biology of the female throughout her life span. Topics include reproductive anatomy, the menstrual cycle and its hormonal control, aspects of sexual function, contraception, pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, infertility and other gynecological problems, and menopause. Satisfies the non-laboratory science distribution requirement. Cannot be counted toward the biology major. Normally offered every other year. Enrollment limited. Priority given to first-year and second-year students. Three credit hours. N.

133s Microorganisms and Society An introduction to the importance of microorganisms to human health and the functioning of planet Earth. The diversity of the microbial world presented with relevant examples of how microorganisms affect our daily lives. Discussions and lectures based on the roles microorganisms and viruses play in disease, the food industry, ecological relationships, and biotechnology. Satisfies the laboratory science distribution requirement. Cannot be counted toward the biology major. Enrollment limited. Priority given to first-year and second-year students. Lecture and laboratory. Four credit hours. N. MR. FEKETE

161f Introduction to Biology: Organismal Biology Consideration of biological problems and processes common to all organisms. Topics include the acquisition, transformation, and utilization of energy, nutrients, and gases; production and removal of waste products; integration and transmission of information within and among organisms; and reproduction. Biological diversity also will be addressed. Examples drawn from plants, animals, and microorganisms. Lecture and laboratory. Four credit hours. N. MR. WILSON AND INSTRUCTOR

162s Introduction to Biology: Genetics and Cell Biology An examination of inheritance and cellular function, with emphasis on experimental findings. Laboratory emphasizes an experimental approach. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 161. Four credit hours. N. MR. CHAMPLIN AND MR. GREENWOOD

211f Taxonomy of Flowering Plants An introduction to the study of variation, evolution, classification, and nomenclature of biological organisms and the techniques used by systematists in establishing phylogenetic relationships, with particular emphasis on flowering plants. Recognition of major families of flowering plants and identification of specimens represented in the local flora are stressed. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Four credit hours. MR. PHILLIPS

212s Evolution An introduction to the concepts of population genetics and evolution. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Lecture only: three credit hours; lecture and laboratory: four credit hours. MS. STONE

[214] Plant Physiology The essential mechanisms of plant function. Topics include plant water relations, mineral nutrition, photosynthesis, respiration, nitrogen fixation, and stress physiology. The importance of these physiological processes to plants in agricultural and natural ecosystems will be considered. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Four credit hours.

216s Biology of Vascular Plants A study of vascular plants with emphasis on structure, activities, reproduction, and evolutionary relationships of ferns, gymnosperms, and angiosperms. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Four credit hours. MR. FOWLES

232s Developmental Biology A study of development, with emphasis on the experimental findings that have led to present ideas of the morphological and chemical processes underlying the development and growth of organisms. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Lecture only: three credit hours; lecture and laboratory: four credit hours. MR. CHAMPLIN

[235] Horticulture Basic principles in the areas of plant structure and function will be considered and related to plant cultivation. Practical application of these principles discussed in areas such as lighting, propagation, pruning, and floriculture. Offered in alternate years. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Lecture only: three credit hours; lecture and laboratory: four credit hours.

238f Bacteriology An introduction to pathogenic bacteriology. Mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis and mammalian responses against infectious agents of disease; development of general knowledge in these areas and practical experience in laboratory techniques. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162, Chemistry 141, 142. Four credit hours. MR. FEKETE

252f Plant Development A study of the mechanisms by which plants increase their size and develop different tissues and organs to carry out specific functions. The influence of hormones, as well as light and other environmental factors on plant morphogenesis will be considered. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Lecture only: three credit hours; lecture and laboratory: four credit hours. MR. JOHNSON

[254] Marine Invertebrate Zoology The morphology, functional anatomy, and classification of the invertebrates. An optional weekend trip to the Maine coast. Lecture and laboratory. Formerly offered as Biology 316. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Four credit hours.

[257j] Winter Ecology An introduction to the ecological and physiological adaptations of plants and animals to the winter environment in central Maine; an extensive field component. Enrollment limited. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Three credit hours.

258j Ecological Field Study Intensive study in a south temperate or tropical area. Students must cover expenses. Limited scholarship funds are available. Enrollment limited. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Three credit hours. MR. FIRMAGE

271f Introduction to Ecology Introduction to ecological principles, structure and function of ecosystems, patterns of distribution, energy flow, nutrient cycling, population dynamics, and adaptations of organisms to their physical environment. Application of these principles to current environmental problems. Field trips to sites representative of local terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Four credit hours. MS. STONE

274s Neurobiology Introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system from the cellular to the systems level. Topics include the basics of cellular neurophysiology and neuroanatomy, motor and sensory systems, neural networks and mechanisms of patterned neural activity, and mechanisms for learning and memory. Limited enrollment. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Four credit hours. MS. TILDEN

278s Mammalian Anatomy and Physiology Examination of the anatomy and physiology of tissues, organs, and organ systems of mammals including humans. The functional anatomy of mammals and how it permits them to solve problems such as movement, acquisition and utilization of food and fluids, transfer and integration of information, and reproduction. Intended primarily for sophomores. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Four credit hours. MS. BEVIER

279f Genetics The mechanisms of inheritance, with emphasis on experimental findings. The physical and chemical bases for the behavior of genes, and applications of genetic principles to society. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Lecture only: three credit hours; lecture and laboratory: four credit hours. MR. CHAMPLIN

[312] Vertebrate Zoology A study of the vertebrates with emphasis on functional anatomy, natural history, and evolutionary relationships. The adaptive strategies of vertebrates to interactions with their environment. Species common to New England are emphasized. Offered in alternate years. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 271. Four credit hours.

313f Biology of Fungi, Algae, and Mosses Comparative studies of the morphology, development, physiology, and significance of fungi, algae, and mosses. Lecture and laboratory. Formerly offered as Biology 213. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Four credit hours. MR. FOWLES

315f Animal Cells, Tissues, and Organs Studies of the organization of cells into tissues and organs in animals. Emphasis on the relationship between cellular morphology and tissue and organ function. Laboratories emphasize the microanatomy of mammalian tissues and tissue culture techniques and experimentation. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Four credit hours. MR. GREENWOOD

[319] Conservation Biology Concepts of conservation biology examined in detail. Topics include patterns of diversity and rarity, sensitive habitats, extinction, captive propagation, preserve design, and reclamation of degraded or destroyed ecosystems. Interdisciplinary solutions to the challenges of protecting, maintaining, and restoring biological diversity. Offered in alternate years. Enrollment limited. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Three credit hours.

334s Ornithology An introduction to the biology of birds. Topics include evolution and diversity, feeding and flight adaptations, the physiology of migration, communication, mating systems and reproduction, population dynamics, and conservation of threatened species. Field trips to local habitats; occasional Saturday field trips. Lecture and laboratory. Offered in alternate years. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Four credit hours. MR. WILSON

352s Ecological Theory The theoretical aspects of population and community ecology, emphasizing population regulation, demography, trophic relationships, community structure and organization, and succession. Coevolutionary interactions between plants and animals. Relevance of ecological theory to the solution of environmental problems. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 271. Four credit hours. MR. FIRMAGE

[354] Marine Biology A study of marine organisms and their environment with emphasis on coastal systems. Laboratory exercises provide quantitative methods for studying organisms. Occasional weekend field trips to the coast. Lecture and laboratory. Offered in alternate years. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Four credit hours.

357s Physiological Ecology An examination of the physiological and behavioral adaptations of organisms to environmental conditions and consideration of how such adaptations affect the interactions of organisms. Examples drawn from terrestrial, marine, and freshwater plants and animals. An independent field project is a component of the laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 271. Lecture only: three credit hours. MS. BEVIER

[358j] Ecological Field Study Intensive study in a tropical area. Students must cover expenses. Limited scholarship funds are available. Enrollment limited. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Three credit hours.

367f, 368s Biochemistry of the Cell Topics include the structure, function, and cellular organization of biomolecules; the generation and use of metabolic energy; and the integrated control of cellular functions. Also listed as Chemistry 367, 368. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162, Chemistry 241, 242. Biology 367 is prerequisite for Biology 368. Lecture and laboratory. Four credit hours. MR. DUNHAM AND MS. DUNHAM

373f Animal Behavior An examination of animal behavior from a biological perspective. Topics include the control, development, function, and evolution of behavior. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162. Lecture only: three credit hours; lecture and laboratory: four credit hours. MS. BEVIER

375f Comparative Animal Physiology A comparative study and broad overview of physiological systems and adaptations among animals from morphological, biochemical, and mechanical perspectives. General physiological principles illustrated by examining variation in musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and osmoregulatory systems. Laboratory emphasizes an experimental approach to the measurement of physiological processes. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162, Chemistry 141, 142. Lecture only: three credit hours; lecture and laboratory: four credit hours. MS. TILDEN

378s Molecular Biology An examination of how organisms maintain and express genetic information. Emphasis on well-characterized model systems in higher plants and animals. Topics include nuclear and organellar genomes, regulation of gene expression by developmental and environmental stimuli, and production of transgenic organisms. Also listed as Chemistry 378. Prerequisite: Biology 279, Chemistry 141, 142. Lecture and laboratory. Four credit hours. MR. JOHNSON

379f Electron Microscopy Principles and practice of transmission and scanning electron microscopy, including electron optics, imaging, and x-ray microanalysis. The routine operation of both the TEM and SEM are presented and practiced, as are the principles and techniques of sample preparation from living materials. The interpretation and evaluation of electron photomicrographs are emphasized. Students have an opportunity to develop further their techniques and expertise in the area of greatest interest to them. Enrollment limited. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162, Chemistry 141, 142, a major in one of the natural sciences, and permission of the instructor. Four credit hours. MR. CHAMPLIN

[393] Topics in Ecology and Environmental Science Discussion of advanced topics of current interest based on the primary literature. May be repeated for credit once. One credit hour. FACULTY

394fs Topics in Cell and Molecular Biochemistry Discussion of advanced topics of current interest based on the primary literature. May be repeated for credit. Also listed as Chemistry 394. One credit hour. MR. DUNHAM AND MR. GREENWOOD

398s Advanced Cell Biology Advanced study of major cellular processes, including the mechanisms of transport, sorting of cellular components, motility, cellular communication, and control of the cell-cycle. Includes extensive reading from the primary literature. Prerequisite: Biology 161, 162, Chemistry 242. Three credit hours. MR. GREENWOOD

451s Applied and Environmental Microbiology The ecology of microorganisms associated with plants and animals, as well as terrestrial and aquatic microorganisms and their general roles in the environment. Laboratories include both field- and laboratory-based components. A major independent research project is required. Prerequisite: Biology 238. Lecture and laboratory. Five credit hours. MR. FEKETE

483f, 483j, 484s Honors Research in Biology Research conducted under the guidance of a faculty member and focused on an approved topic leading to the writing of an honors thesis and an oral presentation of the research results. One to four credit hours. FACULTY

490fs Senior Colloquium Attendance at selected departmental colloquia during the fall and spring semesters; written evaluations to be submitted. Required of all senior biology majors. Noncredit. FACULTY

491f, 492s Independent Study Prerequisite: Permission of a faculty sponsor. One to four credit hours. FACULTY

493f Problems in Environmental Science Causes of and solutions to selected environmental problems studied through lectures, discussions, and guest presentations. A group project is conducted to teach methods used by private firms and governmental agencies to investigate environmental problems. Enrollment limited. Prerequisite: Environmental science concentration. Five credit hours. MR. FIRMAGE

[494] Topics in Biology Reading and discussion about contemporary topics in biology. Prerequisite: Biology major. One credit hour.