Part 3: Course Project Topic
Throughout the term, you will complete a multi-step Course Project that focuses on one species of organism. For this week, think about one or two species you may consider, share them, and tell us why they piqued your interest or how they are relevant to you.
Keep the following in mind:
The topic of the course project will be any species native to your area. The organism should come from one of the four major kingdoms (Protist, Fungus, Plant, or Animal) and be indigenous to the area in which you reside. The organism should not be a domesticated pet, farm animal, houseplant, human, etc., but rather a wild species that is native to the local area where you live or one that you find interesting but may not be able to directly observe (e.g., great white shark). If possible, try to select a different species than your classmates. However, it is okay if more than one classmate selects the same organism; I want you to be interested and excited about what you will be researching!
NOTE: For the Mini-Presentation Assignment due in Week 2, you will only choose ONE species of organism, so be specific! (e.g., the common house gecko whose scientific name is Hemidactylus frenatus)
Discussion Part III: One Species of Organism
The species I want to highlight in the discussion area of this week’s project is the Beavers.
It is from the Mammalia class (Rosell & Campbell-Palmer, 2022, p.25). Although this animal does not look very eye-catching this tiny semiaquatic rodent-like animal with its stout body, large head, and chisel-like teeth acts as a keystone species. It is very surprising to see that, this little animal, proves beneficial for many other animals. With the help of tree branches, rocks, mud, and vegetation they are able to build dams and lodges. These dams impound water and serve as a shelter for many other species. Freshwater bodies like rivers, lakes, and ponds are the main residing area of this little animal. Whenever, fortunately, I got a chance to see them, they fascinated me always with their activities. The way they swim in the water is really very wonderful.
Although earlier this species was hunted hugely for their meat and fur, now it is satisfactory to hear that, after the strict law and rules against wild animal harm, there are able to increase in number and are safe. Now they can freely wander in the lap of Mother Nature and their habitat. These mammals were enlisted as the least concern by the IUCN red list of mammals. I personally found them very interesting.
Wish everyone the best of luck!
Reference:
Rosell, F., & Campbell-Palmer, R. (2022). Beavers: Ecology, Behaviour, Conservation, and Management. Oxford University Press.
