The Flooded Savannahs of the Orinoco River: Biodiversity, Aquatic Ecology and Sustainable Use
ENVS 255
Spring 2026
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01
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The flooded savannahs, known as Llanos (pronounced Yan-nos), are the largest ecotype in the world extending more than 570,000 km2. During the peak rainy season of May through July, more than 106,000 km2 are flooded. The rains are torrential, and a vast wetland emerges. The ecology of the llanos changes dramatically from a principally terrestrial savannah ecotone to one of a water-dominated wetland. With the inundation of the llanos, the biomass and species richness of the fishes increases dramatically to be among the richest of the planet, exceeding all estuaries in richness and biodiversity. In this course we will discuss the aquatic ecology principally of the fishes to learn about their diversity and the historic evolution of the habitat. Other species such as birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals will also be discussed. The course will include analyses of the intersection of human use and the ecology of the fishes, which provide sustenance for hundreds of thousands of people. Through seminars and discussions this course will allow an analysis of the importance of the fish as natural resource. The evolution, ecological adaptations and natural history will be examined with an emphasis to understanding how sustainable use can be achieved. |
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
NSM ENVS |
| Course Format: Lecture / Discussion | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: None |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: (Environmental Studies Minor)(Environmental Studies)(Latin American Studies) |
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Past Enrollment Probability: 75% - 89% |
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