SEAS CURE: Exploring Coral Biology Across Scales

Abstract

Complex biological concepts (like symbiosis and coral biology) that span multiple scales and cross disciplinary boundaries are often difficult for students to understand. This complexity is compounded by the challenges inherent to teaching and learning the process of science, especially at the undergraduate level. To address these issues, we developed the Symbiotic Exaiptasia -Algae System, or SEA System, which leverages the model anemone Exaiptasia diaphana (often used as a proxy for corals in research laboratories) along with its dinoflagellate symbionts. The SEA System represents a cost-effective, tractable platform for students to explore symbiosis and coral biology in the laboratory. We provide lesson plans for both a Preliminary Laboratory Activity (PLA) and multiple Authentic Research Experiences (AREs) that are accompanied by detailed, user-friendly protocols. Collectively, these resources support a versatile course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) that instructors can implement in one or multiple laboratory sessions of biology courses at any level. The SEAS CURE allows students to learn about biological concepts from molecular to ecological scales and to engage in authentic research. By emphasizing both concepts and competencies, this holistic and inclusive approach facilitates the teaching and learning of science in undergraduate biology courses.