MARINE BOTANY
DR. BRANDON O'BRIEN - KUTZTOWN UNIVERSITY
Course Description:
Plants and algae form the foundation of marine ecosystems, from the shore to the open sea. In this course, we will explore biology and ecology of these photosynthetic organisms, ranging from microscopic phytoplankton to macroscopic seaweeds and vascular plants. We will discuss the usage and importance of marine plants and algae to human society, as well as threats to marine ecosystems. Emphasis will be placed on identification of algae and plants in the field, as well as laboratory analysis and herbarium cataloging.
Marketable Skills Gained from This Course:
General Description of Field Activities:
Field Activities will include trips to the following environments:
Approximate Amount of Course Time Spent in Field:
50%
Prerequisites:
Required Textbook or Supplies:
Number of Students:
6-12
2026 Chincoteague Bay Field Station Fee*:
3 week course; housing and meals included
Salicornia: $1,925
Traditional: $1,770
Fees are subject to change at the discretion of the board of directors
* Does not include university tuition or fees. For specific policy on CBFS fees, click HERE.
Plants and algae form the foundation of marine ecosystems, from the shore to the open sea. In this course, we will explore biology and ecology of these photosynthetic organisms, ranging from microscopic phytoplankton to macroscopic seaweeds and vascular plants. We will discuss the usage and importance of marine plants and algae to human society, as well as threats to marine ecosystems. Emphasis will be placed on identification of algae and plants in the field, as well as laboratory analysis and herbarium cataloging.
Marketable Skills Gained from This Course:
- Plant and algae identification
- Herbarium pressing and specimen preservation techniques
- Field survey procedures
- Microscopy
- Data analysis
- Science communication
General Description of Field Activities:
- Conduct surveys of plant and algal diversity and abundance in a variety of habitats
- Collect specimens for further analysis in the laboratory
- Boat or kayak trips
- Plankton tows
- Observe and appreciate the natural history of our local environment
Field Activities will include trips to the following environments:
- Salt marsh
- Barrier island beaches and dunes
- Maritime forest
- Seagrass beds
Approximate Amount of Course Time Spent in Field:
50%
Prerequisites:
- Required: One year (two semesters) of college level biology
- Recommended: Introductory botany course
Required Textbook or Supplies:
- Required: Field notebook (write-in-the-rain or similar)
- Recommended: Field Guide to Coastal Wetland Plants of the Northeast (R. Tiner)
Number of Students:
6-12
2026 Chincoteague Bay Field Station Fee*:
3 week course; housing and meals included
Salicornia: $1,925
Traditional: $1,770
Fees are subject to change at the discretion of the board of directors
* Does not include university tuition or fees. For specific policy on CBFS fees, click HERE.
