Unbeknownst to most biologists, the (mostly) predatory group of arthropods known as arachnids encompasses eleven extant orders, many of which can be found in the tropical forests of Central America. Within this incredibly speciose group we observe tremendous diversity with respect to sensory systems (many of them unique to particular groups); morphological adaptations/specializations; foraging strategies; mating strategies; communication systems; and ecological interactions (among others). Course Content

This course will incorporate field-based observations, inquiry-based learning programs, hands-on experience, and interactive lectures to inform students of the basic natural history, structure, and function of all arachnid groups. Building upon this foundation, and in conjunction with knowledge gained through primary literature discussions and synthesis, students will develop their own research projects. Through fieldwork and laboratory analyses, this course will help students gain basic knowledge and hand-on experience in the following diverse fields as they pertain to arachnids: anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, evolution, phylogenetics and systematics. Additionally, students will be exposed to pedagogical tools that will augment their academic toolbox.

OTS Central American Office: PO Box 676-2050, San Pedro, San José, Costa Rica | Telephone: (506)2524 0607 | Fax: (506)2524 0608 | Website: www.ots.ac.cr

WHEN: 3 – 17 Januarry 2014

Latest arrival 2 January, earliest departure January 18.

WHERE: Costa Rica — La Selva Biological Station.

© J. Stafstrom © J. Stafstrom

OTS Central American Office:

PO Box 676-2050, San Pedro, San José, Costa Rica | Telephone: (506)2524 0607 | Fax: (506)2524 0608 | Website: www.ots.ac.cr

FURTHER INFORMATION: Andrés Santana andres.santana@ots.ac.cr Barbara Lewis barbara.lewis@ots.ac.cr

For course content: Eileen Hebets ehebets2@unl.edu

APPLICATION DEADLINE: October 1, 2013 (for priority consideration, followed by open enrollment until filled; 20 participants)

TUITION:

$ 2000 OTS consortium applicants

$ 2800 Non-consortium applicants

A limited number of partial need-based scholarships are available, with first priority to OTS consortium applicants and Latin Americans. Costa Rican residents are eligible for a discount.

Applicants should check with their departments and advisors in advance to arrange academic credit for this course.

Course Objectives:

Delve into current scientific research and discover the cutting edge questions and approaches implemented by leading arachnologists. Obtain fundamental understanding of arachnid evolution, with a focus on evolutionary relantionship among extant and extinct chelicerate groups. Develop basic skills in arachnid collection, preservation, and identification.

Participants

All participants should be fluent in English. A working knowledge of Spanish would be useful. This course is relevant for all graduate students interested in arthropods and upper level undergraduates interested in being exposed to tropical research.

Course Instructors:

Eileen Hebets, Ph. D. — University of Nebraska.

Jason Bond, Ph. D. — Auburn University.

Ingi Agnarsson, Ph.D.— University of Vermont.

Greta Binford, Ph.D.— Lewis and Clark College.

Jay Stafstrom, M. Sc.— University of Nebraska. Teaching Assistant. Invited Faculty: Gilbert Barrantes, Ph.D. and William Eberhard, Ph.D, from the University of Costa Rica.

© J. Stafstrom