MARS 478 - Marine Mammal Health (2)

This course provides an overview of marine mammal health, focusing on stranding response, health assessments, and the common diseases affecting species such as bottlenose dolphins, manatees, and sea lions. Special emphasis will be placed on how marine mammals serve as sentinels for ocean health, with a specific focus on the impacts of oil spills, harmful algal blooms (HABs), and marine debris on these animals. Students will learn about the diagnostic techniques used in marine mammal health assessments, the common diseases these animals face, and how environmental changes affect their well-being. Offered: Summer.