OVERVIEW

Marine Biology is the science of life in the sea encompassing its many systematic, structural, organisational, behavioural, and applicative aspects. Although Marine Biology has established its own distinct identity between the 19th and 20th centuries, it is fitting to acknowledge the scientists and initiatives that contributed to laying the groundwork for this science to achieve its cultural autonomy. The teaching will aim to follow, in broad terms, this exciting human adventure, simultaneously cultural and technological, through the description of the characters and ideas that have represented the milestones of its development.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The teaching provides the basic elements for the knowledge of the development of marine biological research, both as a terms of its historical context and as an evolution of ideas and research themes. All this will be read in the light of the development of technologies that have allowed the exploration and collection of data on an environment as peculiar and difficult to penetrate as the marine one. Particular attention will be paid to the history of Italian marine biology and its development in the Ligurian Sea.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of the course, the student:

• Will have enriched his/her cultural background regarding the historical and cultural development of marine biology

• Will have acquired knowledge related to the scientific and technological development of the main research topics in the marine field

• Will have received an overview of the birth and evolution of the main marine research institutes

This cultural background is intended as a fertile basis for the development of one’s research ideas. Furthermore, the students will be able to measure their own ability to present non- technical topics through the final exam.

PREREQUISITES

To effectively address the contents of the teaching, basic knowledge of Marine Biology is required.

TEACHING METHODS

The teaching consists of classroom lectures.

Attendance at classes is strongly recommended.

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 teaching consists of classroom lectures.

1. Marine Biology as an autonomous science

2. History of Marine Biology

The beginnings

The spirit of the Renaissance

The 18th century and the beginnings of marine biology

The Linnean age

The 19th century and the exploration of the seas

The developments of modern marine biology

3. Role of Marine Biology Stations

4. Role of Scientific Societies

5. Technological innovations in the exploration of the marine environment

6. The impact of scuba diving on the developments of marine biology

7. Exploration of the deep

8. History of marine biology applied to fishing

9. History of research in the Ligurian Sea

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Scientific articles and teaching materials will be made available by the teacher during the teaching.

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 in an oral examination.

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 ability to present topics clearly and accurately using correct terminology will also be assessed.

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.