ENTOM 2030 - Honey Bees: Their Intriguing Biology and Interactions with Humans

(BIONLS-AG, OPHLS-AG)

Fall. 2-3 credits, variable. Student option grading.

M. Caillaud.

Honey bees have been an object of fascination for mankind since prehistoric times. They have, and still are, prized for their honey and beeswax. They are essential coworkers in agriculture. Bee pollination is responsible for more than $15 billion in increased crop value each year, and their decline threatens the commercial production of many specialty crops that depend on them. The complexity of their communal life has intrigued many observers and scientists. This course aims to offer an exploration of one of the most amazing life forms we know. Topics covered include chemical ecology, insect physiology, beekeeping, behavioral ecology, pollination biology, sociobiology, Colony Collapse Disorder and Conservation Biology. The relationship between Humans and honeybees from prehistoric through modern age will be emphasized.

Outcome 1: Understand the basic biology of honey bees, their diversity, unique anatomy/physiology, behavior, complex society, chemical world and environmental adaptations.

Outcome 2: Analyze the relationships between honey bees and Humans throughout History: how did they influence Human History? Do they still influence our daily life? How important are honey bees for our agriculture?

Outcome 3: Evaluate some of the basic tools used in Biological Research and gain an appreciation for where our current understanding of Biology comes from.

Outcome 4: Demonstrate self-directed learning in Biology by identifying and utilizing credible resources available to the educated layperson.

Outcome 5: Communicate effectively biological principles and issues in both written and oral forms.