Dec 05, 2025  
2025-2026 Western Washington University Catalog 
    
2025-2026 Western Washington University Catalog
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MACS 426 - Ichthyology


Ichthyology will focus on the anatomy, evolution, systematics, and taxonomy of fishes, with an emphasis on the local fishes of the Salish Sea and the watersheds which drain into it. Students will learn about the relationships of major fish lineages, the characteristics of these lineages (e.g., their ecological roles, species diversity, anatomical structures), the role of molecular techniques (e.g., DNA sequencing) in modern ichthyology, how to write taxonomic descriptions, how fish collections support scientific research, and potential career paths for ichthyologists.

Prerequisites & Notes: MACS 303 and BIOL 204; Biology, Marine and Coastal Science, or Environmental Sciences major status.
Credits: 5
Grade Mode: Letter



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