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.
The Marine Ethology course aims to provide students with basic knowledge and a general overview of the main animal behaviors in the marine environment and 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.
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 their knowledge in the field of ethology and behavioural ecology regarding the marine environment, in order to obtain cognitive tools that can facilitate the evaluation from an evolutionary and adaptive point of view of marine organisms and their role in different ecosystems.
To effectively address the contents of the module, basic knowledge regarding 'Marine Biodiversity and Adaptations' (114733) is necessary.
The module consists of frontal lessons. Attendance at lessons is not mandatory but is strongly recommended. The classroom lessons are delivered through multimedia presentations.
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.
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
All slides used during lessons and other teaching materials will be available on AulaWeb at the end of each lesson cycle.All slides used during lessons and other teaching materials will be available on AulaWeb at the end of each lesson cycle.
For lessons start and timetable visit: https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/
The timetable for this course is available here: EasyAcademy
The exam consists of a written test designed to evaluate knowledge of the fundamental elements of the subject and the ability to make connections between various topics. The text will consist of multiple-choice questions and two open-ended questions.
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 focus on the topics covered during the lectures and aims to evaluate not only whether the student has reached an adequate level of knowledge, but also whether they have acquired the ability to recall theoretical notions by applying them to concrete examples.
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.
