Marine Biology in Roatan
- Scuba dive and snorkel on the coral reefs to explore the ecology and diversity
- Daily lectures in coral reef and general marine biology
- Night dives and snorkeling to observe bioluminescence
Students in this 2-credit field course will have the opportunity to dive (literally and figuratively) into the world of marine biology and coral reef ecology by exploring the ecology and diversity of marine organisms on the island of Roatan. The course is expected to consist of a daily lecture on various marine topics, two scuba dives from boats on most days, occasional explorations of intertidal zones (rocky and sandy shores) and subtidal grass beds and daily field trip discussions.
Roatan is the largest of the Bay Islands of Honduras located in the Caribbean Sea approximately 35 miles north of mainland Honduras. The island is located on an exposed ancient coral reef that is the second largest barrier reef in the world. The island has a tropical climate and the average range of air temperature in January of 73-84 degrees Fahrenheit and a narrow water temperature range of 79-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Many days in January have short rains followed by bright sun.
Two hours of academic credit will be granted by the University of Kansas upon successful completion of the program. Undergraduate students will enroll in BIOL 418: Laboratory in: Marine Biology, which will count as a lab credit. Graduate students will enroll in BIOL 701: Laboratory in: Marine Biology, which will count as a seminar/topics course credit.
There will be at least two required meetings before the program to discuss course requirements, the program in Roatan, and recommended items to take. In addition, students are welcome to contact Professor Rivers during the semester to discuss the program and course.
Course lectures by Professor Rivers will introduce students to such topics as the general structure and ecological function of diverse marine environments (from estuaries to the deep sea), the structure, formation, and functioning of coral reefs, the ecology of reef organisms (vertebrates, invertebrates, plants, and algae), and the modern threats to coral reefs.
The group will stay at Anthony's Key Resort in dorm-like room. Up to six students in bunk beds will be in each room. Three meals per day will be provided at the resort.
The group will participate in up to two dives per day most days from a dive boat at various locations around the island. Most of these dives will not exceed about sixty feet in depth. An additional, optional night dive is also planned. Additionally, there is unlimited shore diving, snorkeling, and recreational swimming opportunities.
The dive operations provide students with scuba tanks, weights, and belts. All other gear can be rented on the island, but students should plan on taking, at minimum, their own fitted mask and snorkel. Students can rent necessary dive gear through Anthony's Key. Although water temperatures average 79-80 degrees Fahrenheit, multiple dives and any rainy weather can lower core body temperature. Therefore, it is recommended to either bring or rent a short or long wetsuit. Students will be required to follow standard scuba diving safety procedures as detailed in all scuba open water diving certification courses.
Students can also visit the Roatan Museum and swim with dolphins once while at Anthony's Key.
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Additional Resources
Check our Identity Abroad page and resources listed below for information specific to you and other students who may be on your program.
Open to undergraduate and graduate students from accredited U.S. colleges or universities who have a minimum 2.5 GPA. Participants need to be good swimmers and must be scuba certified. For those students who are not already scuba certified, the best time to do so is before October 1 when the Kansas water temperature is warmer. Students in all majors are welcome; and although no course pre-requisites are required, a general organismal biology or ecology course is useful.
Professor Trevor Rivers (trivers@ku.edu) from the Undergraduate Biology Program will lead the program. He has been performing research in the Caribbean, including Roatan, since 2001, where he studies the bioluminescence and behavior of marine organisms.
Check out this video of the Marine Biology Roatan program from 2020.
Students could consider purchasing diving insurance though Divers Alert Network (DAN). You can read more about joining DAN here.
Passport and entry requirements
All U.S. citizens must have a passport to enter Honduras that is valid for six months beyond the return date. No tourist visa is required. For students who need to apply for an adult passport, please view the processing times and request one soon. KU Study Abroad & Global Engagement has a Passport Center where students can apply for a U.S. passport.
Non-U.S. citizens are responsible for understanding their entry requirements. Be in touch with KU Study Abroad with questions.