Marine Ecology Program

Marine Biology is the study of living organisms found in salt or brackish water. The ocean covers 75% of the Earth. The  Deering Estate Staff has developed a Marine Biology Curriculum in which students have the opportunity to discover fish adaptations through fish dissections, learn about mangroves, coastal communities and other marine habitats. Students will also learn about different endangered species such as sea turtles and marine mammals. The main objective of this program is to promote a basic understanding and marine ecology and conservation through hands-on activities. What makes this program different from other programs offered in South Florida is the fact that the role, impact and utilization of marine resources by humans are emphasized. Students are made aware of the important role economics play in marine conservation and the role they can play in marine conservation issues.

The Marine Biology I curriculum encompasses themes like mangroves, coastal wetlands, seagrass beds, squid and marine mammals. The Marine Biology II curriculum includes topics in coral reefs, fish anatomy, seashells and sea turtles, concluding with the creation of an edible coral reef.