During the course, the plant and animal species of the mountains and their habitat are studied with emphasis on factors and processes that determine the density and distribution of the species. This includes studies of various species adaptations to the mountain environment as well as trophic interactions in terrestrial and aquatic systems. In addition, the climate, bedrock, hydrology and potential effects of climate change are treated. During excursions and field projects theory and identification of species is practiced as well as oral and written presentation.