Life at the Edge: Extreme Evolution JanTerm 2017 George M. Diggs, Jr. Department of Biology and Center for Environmental Studies Austin College, Sherman, Texas & Research Associate, Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT)

To Contact Dr. Diggs:

Austin College Phone: (903) 813-2246
Office: IDEA Center 261
Mailing Address: Department of Biology, Austin College, Sherman, TX 75090
AC Suite 61564
e-mail: gdiggs@austincollege.edu
Home page: http://artemis.austincollege.edu/acad/bio/gdiggs/diggs.html
Office Hours: During JanTerm, office hours are by appointment.

Life at the Edge: Extreme Evolution -- Course Synopsis

Animals and plants have evolved to not just survive, but to thrive, in some of the most extreme environments found on earth. From tropical rainforests, to Antarctica and the Arctic, the driest deserts, high mountain peaks, the ocean floor, inside of other creatures, and even in the extremely unnatural modern environments we call cities. As a result there are many fascinating creatures including giant rainforest trees, penguins and polar bears, plants that live where there is only one inch of rain per year, giant worms living on hydrothermal vents at the bottom of the ocean, and bizarre parasites. We will look at the evolutionary mechanisms responsible for the incredible diversity of living things and explore some of the fascinating adaptations shaped by natural selection. We will also examine implications of current human behaviors on the future of our species and others. A number of laboratory sessions are planned including several outdoor labs. No science background is required.

For further information about this course, please contact:

Dr. George Diggs, Professor Department of Biology Austin College 900 N. Grand Ave. Sherman, TX 75090 903-813-2246 Fax: 903-813-3199 gdiggs@austincollege.edu

All text and images on this page copyright 2017, George M. Diggs, Jr.