OVERVIEW

Marine Zoogeography studies the geographical distribution of animal biodiversity in the sea. It classifies oceans into areas characterized by distinct faunas and, using Biogeography methods, identifies the current and historical causes that determine various types of distribution. The central theme of the discipline is biological evolution, which explains the complex relationships between living beings and the geographical areas they occupy

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims to provide students with the general theoretical knowledge of biogeography necessary to understand and interpret the current distribution of animals on the planet, with particular reference to ocean environments. It offers basic information on the historical and ecological processes that have contributed and currently contribute to shaping the present geographical distribution of living beings. The biogeographical divisions of the marine environment are presented in detail, while a more general description is given of terrestrial biogeographical regions. Some methodological aspects are discussed, drawing from biogeographical literature, to encourage students to produce personal critical evaluations and achieve full independence of judgment.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

During the lessons, students will acquire the following skills:

I) Adequate knowledge of study methods and representation of the geographical range and the biotic and abiotic factors that define its extension, to develop a critical evaluation capacity in the study of the geographical distribution of a taxonomic group;

II) In-depth knowledge of biogeographical processes of vicariance and dispersion, major events in the history of life on the planet, biogeographical divisions of the oceans, and distribution patterns of some marine animal taxa, to have effective tools for evaluating current naturalistic and environmental issues;

III) Synergistically apply the biological-naturalistic knowledge acquired with other disciplines;

IV) Enhance communication skills related to the presentation of the topics covered, using appropriate language.

PREREQUISITES

There are no prerequisite constraints. For effective learning, basic knowledge of Zoology, Ecology, and Geography is recommended. Additionally, knowledge of the English language is necessary for reading scientific publications.

TEACHING METHODS

The course consists of lectures accompanied by examples and discussions. To promote general interest and the ability to critically analyze content, discussions will consider any requests for further exploration from students. Regular attendance is strongly recommended. Refer to the specific Aula Web/TEAMS instance for the course for updates due to changes in the health and epidemiological situation.

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.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The course program includes the presentation and discussion of the following topics:

• Introduction to Zoogeography and definitions

• Concepts of geographical range and barriers

• Fundamental biogeographic models (centre of origin and dispersal, vicariance)

• Ecogeography (distribution of biodiversity, ecogeographic rules, Theory of Island Biogeography)

• History of life on Earth and in the Oceans

• Chorology of the Pelagic System

• Chorology of the Deep System

• Chorology of the Littoral System

• Biogeography of the Mediterranean Sea

• Notes on Dynamic Biogeography

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Presentations used during lectures and other teaching materials will be available on Aula Web/TEAMS at the end of each lecture. This material, together with notes taken during the lectures, will be sufficient for exam preparation.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

Class schedule

MARINE ZOOGEOGRAPHY

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam consists of an oral interview.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Details on exam preparation methods and the depth required for each topic will be provided during the lectures. The exam will cover the topics discussed during the lectures and will aim to assess whether the student has reached an adequate level of knowledge and has acquired the ability to apply theoretical concepts to simple practical contexts. The discussion of a chosen topic or a scientific article proposed by the student as the start of the exam is allowed. The ability to clearly present topics, using correct terminology, and to make connections between separate topics will also be evaluated.