OVERVIEW

The marine environment is a fundamental resource for human beings, whose activities, however, have put it at risk. For this reason, one of the key challenges of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive is to enhance the management of the marine environment, thereby protecting marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Cetaceans are indicator organisms of the health of the ecosystems they inhabit. Therefore, their study also allows the evaluation of the state of conservation of complex ecosystems. The teaching presents the main biological and ecological characteristics of cetaceans, with a specific focus on the species most commonly present in the Mediterranean; the main technologies and analysis methodologies for the study and monitoring of cetaceans; tools for the conservation of cetaceans and in particular the international agreements Pelagos and Accobams; Principles of risk assessment related to the main human activities.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The module aims to provide the main concepts regarding the biology and ecology of cetaceans, with particular reference to Mediterranean species, as well as to develop the necessary skills in various research techniques.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Attendance and participation in lectures and the planned laboratory part will allow the student to acquire advanced knowledge regarding the biology and ecology of cetaceans, analysis methodologies and the use of specific software.

Specifically, the student will be able to:

- Acquire knowledge related to the biology and ecology of cetaceans, with particular reference to Mediterranean species

- Acquire knowledge regarding the conservation of cetaceans in the Mediterranean and the anthropic impacts to which they are subjected

- Acquire practical notions regarding the collection and analysis of data relating to cetacean monitoring

- Acquire knowledge related to the use of GIS software for the study of cetacean distribution

PREREQUISITES

There are no specific requirements.

TEACHING METHODS

The module consists of 20 hours of lectures, delivered through multimedia presentations. Attendance at lectures is not mandatory but is strongly recommended. No field trips are planned.

A practical component is planned (12.5 hours) that includes the use of the computer room to learn and apply analysis methodologies using GIS, acoustic, and statistical analysis software, as well as attend technical seminars.

The way lessons are taught may be modified due to emergencies that prevent in-person lessons from being held. In this case, classes will be held via the Teams platform using suitable substitute teaching tools.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The program includes the discussion and analysis of the following topics:

• Evolution and morphological and physiological adaptations

• Mysticetes and odontocetiphysiology and classification

• Cetacean species present in the Mediterranean: biology, distribution, ecology, recognition at sea

• Management and Conservation of cetaceans in the Mediterranean

• Methodologies and instrumentation for data collection and monitoring at sea

• Photo-identification techniques

• Distribution and Habitat – Analysis methodologies

• Abundance – Analysis methodologies

• Acoustic analysis

Notions of Ecotoxicology

Anthropogenic impacts and risk assessment

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

There are no specific textbooks. All the necessary learning material is contained in the PowerPoint presentations. The slides used during the lessons, along with any other teaching materials, will be provided to students during the course.

The material provided and/or suggested will be mainly in English.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

For lessons start and timetable visit: https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam consists of an oral test, designed to assess the knowledge of the fundamental elements of the subject and the ability to connect the various topics. During the oral test, the presentation of solutions to exercises carried out during laboratory hours will also be required.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Details on how to prepare for the exam and the level of depth required for each topic will be provided during the lessons. The exam will primarily focus on the topics covered during the lectures and aim to assess the level of knowledge achieved. The ability to present topics clearly and accurately, using correct terminology, will also be assessed through the preparation of a short (8-minute maximum) presentation on a topic chosen from those covered in the course.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Students who have valid certification of physical or learning disabilities on file with the University and who wish to discuss possible accommodations or other circumstances regarding lectures, coursework and exams, should speak both with the instructor and with Professor Sara Ferrando (sara.ferrando@unige.it), the Department’s disability liaison.