This summer program familiarizes students with the basic concepts in tropical marine ecosystems with an emphasis on coral reefs. This includes scientific examination of the common biota and their ecological relationships. Studies of coral reefs will help students understand the coral reefs' importance in global biodiversity and their role as indicators of climate change. In accordance with the Jesuit tradition of LMU, students will also be doing an environmental service project during the course. Courses are taught by Dr. Roy S. Houston from the LMU Biology Department. Dr. Houston has spent many summers doing marine research in the region and has been involved in long-term reef monitoring studies on the local coral reef system. In addition, there will be guest lectures by staff at the Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences.
This program is held at the Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences, on the northwest coast of Isla Roatán. Students will be housed at Anthony's Key Resort, adjacent to the institute. Much of the island coastline lies within the jurisdiction of the Roatán Marine Park, a protected reserve for countless species of marine and near-shore life.