OVERVIEW

Ethology, the branch of zoology that deals with the study of animal behavior, and Behavioral Ecology, which explains animal behaviors with an evolutionary approach, are disciplines that mostly developed in the terrestrial environment, where observations are simpler. However, the marine environment offers numerous and important examples of structured behaviors, which contribute to defining the ecological role of the species and represent an important part in understanding the mechanisms of natural selection that shape the diversity and functioning of marine ecosystems.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The Marine Ethology course aims to provide students with basic knowledge and a general overview of the main animal behaviors in the marine environment, analyzing their role in the adaptation of organisms to the ecosystem. The topics will be presented from an adaptive and evolutionary perspective, and in particular behaviors connected to trophic, defensive, and reproductive strategies will be explored in depth.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Attendance and participation in the planned training activities will allow the student to acquire knowledge of marine animal behaviour in an adaptive way.

The student will deepen its knowledge in the field of ethology and behavioral ecology regarding the marine environment, in order to obtain cognitive tools that can facilitate the evaluation from an evolutive and adaptative point of view of marine organisms and their role in different ecosystems.

PREREQUISITES

To effectively address the course contents, basic knowledge is required regarding ‘Biodiversità Marina ed Adattamenti’ (114733).

TEACHING METHODS

The course consists of frontal lessons. Attendance at lessons is strongly recommended. The classroom lessons are delivered through multimedia presentations.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

1. Definitions, basic concepts and main theories of ethology and behavioral ecology; instincts and learning in the marine environment.

2. Defensive, aggressive, and reproductive behaviors connected to adaptive similarities in the marine environment

3. Role of biofluorescence and bioluminescence in the behavior of marine animals

4. Defensive, aggressive, and reproductive behaviors connected to symbiosis in the marine environment

5. Social behaviors in the marine environment

6. Role of autotomy in marine animals

7. Behavioral cycles and sleep in the marine environment

8. Migrations in the marine environment

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

All the slides used during the lessons and other teaching material will be available on AulaWeb at the end of each lesson cycle.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

For lessons start and timetable go to the link: https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/

Please check the module Aulaweb page for timetable updates dependent on the sanitary and epidemic situation.

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam consists of a written test aimed at evaluating knowledge of the fundamental elements of the subject and the ability to make connections between the various topics. The text will consist of multiple-choice questions and two open-ended questions.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Details on how to prepare the exam and the level of depth required for each topic will be provided during the lessons. The exam will focus on the topics covered during the lectures and will have the aim of evaluating not only whether the student has reached an adequate level of knowledge, but also whether he has acquired the ability to recall theoretical notions by applying them to concrete examples.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Constant and regular attendance to lectures and related practice exercises is strongly recommended.

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.