In the marine lab, eight major phyla are represented in over 66 genera of marine life including sea anemones, corals, starfish, sea urchins, snails, crabs, lobsters, and algae as well as a wide variety of marine fish. The animals in the lab are maintained by students mainly for class study and research projects, but are also present for the appreciation of visitors and other students.

Students interested in aquatic or marine biology are encouraged to get involved right away and maintain a tank in the marine laboratory on a volunteer basis. The students are then urged to take the closed systems course (Biology 370) to integrate the theory of animal management with marine research. Once this has been completed, the students are prepared for more aquatic or marine courses that may ultimately lead to summer internships at marine institutions. The most serious students may choose to conduct research with one of BGSU’s researching faculty.

Additional experience can be gained with field study during the summer at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Mississippi or Stone Lab in Lake Erie. Both are affiliated with B.G.S.U. Additional field experience is available at other coastal labs and possibly on research cruises.

The B.G.S.U. Marine Laboratory is located on the second floor of the Life Science building and is open to anyone wishing to view the animals or talk with the students. It is open during normal working hours and on weekends when arranged in advance. Large groups are welcome but are requested to call in advance so arrangements can be made for a tour.