OVERVIEW

The course will provide theoretical and practical tools for understanding biological processes underlying the current structure and functioning of pelagic and benthic marine ecosystems.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The main aim of the module is to study the processes and changes underpinning the structure and functioning of pelagic and benthic marine systems. The module will cover abiotic and biotic factors, key biological components, and energy and nutrient transfer across ecosystems. Sampling methods and techniques for the analysis of biological variables and case studies will be also covered. Laboratory classes will cover methods for the management and analysis of oceanographic data.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The attendance and participation in the planned activities (lectures and laboratory classes) will allow the student to acquire the general knowledge in the field of oceanography and data management necessary to perform studies of environmental issues, especially focusing on the biotic compartment of coastal and pelagic marine environments. 

PREREQUISITES

To effectively address the contents of the course, basic knowledge is required regarding Fundamentals of Ecology and Marine Botany and Zoology, Fundamentals of univariate and multivariate Statistics and basic knowledge of Informatics. 

TEACHING METHODS

The teaching consists of lectures and laboratory activities. As practical and methodological activities are planned for the application of the acquired knowledge, attendance to the lectures  is strongly recommended, while attendance at practical and laboratory activities is mandatory at 75%. Lectures are delivered through multimedia presentations. Laboratory classes aim to apply the theoretical knowledge acquired during the lectures. The lab activities take place in specific classrooms of the DISTAV as well as in the field in the LTER site Promontorio di Portofino using equipped nautical means.

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 main contents of the module will concern the study of interactions between abiotic and biotic factors in coastal and open-ocean oceanography, the study of producers, consumers and decomposers, and the transfer of energy and matter across marine environments. An outline of sampling strategies and methods for the analysis of the main biological parameters at sea will be provided. Particular focus will be given to case studies of coastal and offshore marine ecosystems including those of the Mediterranean basin. Laboratory classes will focus on the management and analysis of oceanographic data to describe patterns and determine processes and changes of ecosystem structure and functioning.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

All slides used during the lessons and other educational material will be available at the end of each cycle of lectures / laboratory exercises along with other bibliographic material in pdf format.

Recommended texts for further information:

Lalli & Parsons - Biological Oceanography- Blutterworth Heinemann

Cognetti, Sarà, Magazzù - Biologia marina- CalderoniMiller - Biological Oceanography- Blackwell

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 a written test. The written test (open and multiple-choice questions) is related to the topics and practical activities carried out during the lessons and laboratory exercises. 

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Details on how to prepare the exam and the degree of the required detail for each topic will be provided at the beginning of the lessons and confirmed during lectures and exercises. The student must be able to integrate knowledge acquired during the lectures with the skills acquired during the workshop activities in specific cases treated during the lessons.

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.