Evolution
Evolution is the change in characteristics of populations over time, and this phenomenon has shaped our world into what it is today. Famous evolution scientists you may know include Charles Darwin, Gregor Mendel, and Jean-Baptiste Lamarck.
- Darwin’s Finches: Discover how Darwin’s theory of natural selection came to be and learn how finches in the Galapagos Islands have rapidly evolved over time.
- Evolution in Color: An animal’s coloring is determined partly by the genes it receives from its parents. Explore the colorful world of camouflage with this National Geographic article.
- Co-evolution: This phenomenon occurs when two or more species evolve together and one adapts to the changes in the other. Watch this short video to learn more.
Marine
Marine biology is the study of marine organisms and their relation to the sea. Why is it important? For starters, oceans cover about 70% of the earth!
- The Galapagos Islands: In addition to being known as Charles Darwin’s research environment, the Galapagos archipelago is home to unique marine life—including the world’s only species of marine iguana.
- Coral Reefs: Colorful coral reefs, like the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia, are full of biodiverse marine life. Learn more about the negative impact of climate change in these extremely sensitive underwater environments.
- Become a Professional: Fascinated with the natural world? See what it takes to become a marine biologist.
Terrestrial
Terrestrial biology isn’t about space—it’s about all things that live and grow on land, and occasionally the environmental issues that come with it (like spills and restoration).
- Mass Extinction: Nearly 250 million years ago, almost 95% of all species of earth went extinct. Only four other mass extinctions have ever occurred on our planet.
- Rainforests: One of the most intriguing terrestrial ecosystems in the world is that of the rainforest. Learn more about the structure, benefits, and threats to rainforests today.
- SCAR: The Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) is tasked with initiating, developing, and coordinating research in Antarctica. Explore the biological research being performed on the ice.