WFS 453Ichthyology Laboratory

2 credits · Wildlife and Fisheries Science · Penn State

Ichthyology Laboratory establishes the basic skills for identifying freshwater fish with a focus on the fishes of Pennsylvania. Students use laboratory specimens, field guides, and dichotomous keys to define and recognize anatomical features used to describe fish and characterize families. Students learn to identify fish species using scientific and common names and to describe factors that affect the distribution and abundance of species across the state. Field trips to local waterways allow students to learn collecting techniques and practice identification skills in the field.