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General Info

SUBJECTSEMESTERCFUSSDLANGUAGE
119964 - FISHERIES ECOLOGY AND EXPERIMENTAL AQUACULTURE

UMBERTO SCACCOGIACOMO GRIGNANI

First Semester 12BIO/07eng

Learning objectives

Fishery Ecology
The main purpose of the course is:
TO ACQUIRE KNOWLEDGE AND TOOLS FOR A SUSTAINABLE EXPLOITATION OF FISHING RESOURCES
This will be obtained through the following specific objectives:
1) To understand the rationale behind marine productions and quantification of trophic relationships.
2) To acquire a general knowledge of the Mediterranean nekton, with hints on bio-ecology of the main
species targeted by fishing
3) To have tools such as biostatistical models, equilibrium, growth, age, etc. to demographic study of wild
population with practical exercise in the lab
4) Reconstructing quantitative and structure dynamics of a fished population
5) To have a general knowledge about the main fishing gear, with notes on operation e technical features
and practical exercises on board
6) Assessing exploitation of fisheries resources through statistical models
7) To have awareness on problems and solutions for modern fishing, such as By-catch, protected species,
mitigation systems, and European legislation in the field of fisheries

Experimental Aquaculture:
Students will acquire basic knowledge related to the current state of the aquaculture
sector, methodologies, and farming techniques of the species of greatest global interest.
Specifically, at the end of the course, they will demonstrate:
1 - Knowledge and understanding of the current state and trends characterizing the
aquaculture sector;
2 - Applied knowledge and understanding of the methodologies and farming techniques of
the species of greatest interest to the sector;
3- Developed judgment autonomy through reading, comprehension, and critical analysis of
scientific literature provided during the lessons;
4. Developed communication skills through the presentation of a scientific article;
5. The ability to learn by acquiring familiarity with technical terms and reasoning skills.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

Marine production: ecology, thermodynamics and quantization of trophic relationships
The Mediterranean necton: hints of bio-ecology of the main species subject to fishing
Bio-statistical models: balance, growth, age.
Quantitative and dynamic reconstruction of the structure of a population
The main fishing gear: operation and technical characteristics
Statistical models of the exploitation of fishery resources
Legislation
Modern fishing problems: by-catch, protected species, catch mitigation systems, Italian and European fisheries

Aquaculture module program
• History of aquaculture: Origins and historical notions relating to the birth of the breeding of aquatic organisms
• Trends in aquaculture: Trends in the aquaculture sector at the global, European, national level.
• Production methods: Overview of the most common farming systems.
• Production cycles: Detail of the breeding methods for the species of greatest interest at the global level.
• Triploidy induction and sex inversion: how to obtain sterile monosexual populations.
• Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) principles relating to the operation of a recirculation system for aquaculture.
• Decapod crustacean breeding techniques for conservation purposes: Homarus gammarus, Penaeus kerathurus.
• Phenotypic plasticity: implications for stock enhancement programs.
• Tagging: tagging techniques
• Behavior, stress and animal welfare in aquaculture.
• Environmental impact of aquaculture activities.
Aquaculture module program
• History of aquaculture: Origins and historical notions relating to the birth of the breeding of aquatic organisms
• Trends in aquaculture: Trends in the aquaculture sector at the global, European, national level.
• Production methods: Overview of the most common farming systems.
• Production cycles: Detail of the breeding methods for the species of greatest interest at the global level.
• Triploidy induction and sex inversion: how to obtain sterile monosexual populations.
• Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) principles relating to the operation of a recirculation system for aquaculture.
• Decapod crustacean breeding techniques for conservation purposes: Homarus gammarus, Penaeus kerathurus.
• Phenotypic plasticity: implications for stock enhancement programs.
• Tagging: tagging techniques
• Behavior, stress and animal welfare in aquaculture.
• Environmental impact of aquaculture activities.

examMode

The examination takes place in the forms established by art. 23 of the University Teaching Regulations. A special report is drawn up of its performance, signed by the President and by the members of the commission and by the student examined. The vote is expressed in thirtieths, with possible honours. There are generally 4 oral questions, one of which is chosen by the candidate. Passing the exam presupposes the awarding of a mark of no less than eighteen/thirtieths and involves the attribution of the corresponding university training credits. This threshold is reached if at least two questions (in addition to the one of your choice) are answered appropriately. In evaluating the test and in assigning the final grade, the following will be taken into account: the level of knowledge of the contents demonstrated (superficial, appropriate, precise and complete, complete and thorough), the ability to apply theoretical concepts (errors in applying concepts, fair, good, well established), the ability to analyze, synthesize and interdisciplinary links (sufficient, good, excellent), the ability to critical sense and formulation of judgments (sufficient, good, excellent), mastery of expression (deficient, simple, clear and correct, safe and correct exposition).

books

The slides of the lessons carried out and in-depth handouts on the topics covered in the course will be provided. The consultation of the reference websites was strongly recommended

classRoomMode

Attendance is not mandatory but attendance is strongly recommended, especially in presence

bibliography

Book title: Ecology and protection of the coastal marine environment
Authors: Della Croce Norberto Cattaneo Vietti Riccardo Roberto Danovaro
Publisher: UTET University Publication date: 1998
Pages: 416

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

-History of aquaculture.
-Trends in aquaculture.
-Production systems.
-Production cycles.
-Triploidy and sex reversal.
-Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS).
-Stock enhancement, aquaculture for conservation. Case study: H. gammarus and P. kerathurus.
-Phenotypic plasticity: stock enhancement implications.
-Behaviour, stress and welfare in aquaculture.
-Environmental impacts of farming activities

examMode

Students will be evaluated through an oral exam and by a 15-minute presentation to the class. The oral exam will assess the knowledge acquired during the lessons, the PowerPoint will evaluate presentation skills, critical and information integration abilities.

books

The study material consists of the PowerPoint slides provided during the lessons.

mode

Experimental aquaculture:
Lectures (blended modality), field exercises and laboratory exercises at the hatchery (Cismar).

classRoomMode

Attendance is recommended but not mandatory.

bibliography

Boyd, C., & McNevin, A. (2015). Aquaculture, resource use, and the environment. John Wiley & Sons.
Ebeling, J. M., & Timmons, M. B. (2010). Recirculating aquaculture. Freeville, NY, USA: Cayuga Aqua Ventures.
Lekang, O. I. (2007). Aquaculture engineering. Blackwell Pub.
Nash, C. (2010). The history of aquaculture. John Wiley & Sons.
Pillay, T. V. R. (2008). Aquaculture and the Environment. John Wiley & Sons.

OPTIONAL GROUP - -- -
MARINE MONITORING

VIVIANA PIERMATTEI

First Semester6BIO/07eng

Learning objectives

Educational objectives
The aim of the course is to acquire theoretical-practical cognitive tools for the study and monitoring of marine ecosystems; the acquisition of knowledge and skills, including practical ones, in the context of the study of the marine ecosystem. The course will allow students to learn about the main sampling and monitoring techniques of Mediterranean coastal marine environments, community legislation and institutional monitoring. It will also allow them to carry out simple sampling in practice, subsequently verifying in the laboratory the validity of the techniques carried out in the field.
The aim of the course is to build an educational path that, through lectures and practical exercises, allows the student to know the main methods of study and analysis of marine habitats and the main benthic biocoenoses of the Mediterranean.
Knowledge and understanding - Develop knowledge and understanding skills relating to the components of marine ecosystems and the legislation that regulates their monitoring;
Applying knowledge and understanding - Developing an experimental approach to the study of marine ecosystems and the study of their possible alterations;
Making judgments - To be able to evaluate and face with adequate skills, competences and critical sense the study of the different issues concerning the marine, oceanic and coastal environment presented during the course;
Communication skills - Being able to discuss the main issues addressed during the course with a correct scientific language;
Learning skills - To be able to apply the knowledge acquired, during lectures and exercises, to cases that require the integration of the topics covered during the course.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

The course will take place according to the following structure:
Introduction. Chemical-physical and hydrodynamic characteristics of sea water. Morphological and geological characteristics of the seabed. The zonation of the benthos and the Mediterranean benthic biocenoses. Sampling methodologies and techniques and direct and indirect analysis of the different environmental matrices: sampling representativeness, technical skills, destructive and non-destructive sampling, conservation and main identification and control methods
Community and national environmental legislation. Case histories on community and habitat alterations.
Exercises related to the topics of the course

examMode

oral exam
the objective of the oral exam is to verify the knowledge relating to the topics covered during the course and the ability to connect between the different topics

books

RIEDL R. (2005) - Fauna e Flora del Mediterraneo. Muzzio Editore: 800 pp.
Steele, J. H., Thorpe, S. A., & Turekian, K. K. (2009). Measurement techniques, sensors and platforms: a derivative of Encyclopedia of ocean sciences.
Lecture notes by the Professor and data sheets available on the Internet

classRoomMode

Optional in the classroom

bibliography

RIEDL R. (2005) - Fauna e Flora del Mediterraneo. Muzzio Editore: 800 pp.
Steele, J. H., Thorpe, S. A., & Turekian, K. K. (2009). Measurement techniques, sensors and platforms: a derivative of Encyclopedia of ocean sciences.

MARINE PARASITOLOGY

MARIA LETIZIA PALOMBA

First Semester6VET/06eng

Learning objectives

Educational objectives
The course aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of marine parasitology, including the biology, systematics, and ecological roles of marine parasites. Students will acquire practical skills in parasite identification and analysis, alongside the use of modern scientific methodologies. The course also encourages critical thinking and the ability to apply learned knowledge across different ecological research contexts.
Knowledge and skills of understanding - Results concerning the expected acquired knowledge will mainly concern: biological aspects of marine parasites (systematics, life cycles, adaptive evolutionary aspects of the endo-ectoparasites, reproductive strategies, host-manipulation); methodological approaches in the study of marine parasites (collection and storing of parasites, integrative taxonomy, molecular systematics, phylogeny, genomics and transcriptomics, statistical analysis of epidemiological data); biodiversity (knowledge and recognition of the major systematic groups of parasites of marine organism, with particular concerns of the Mediterranean Sea). The acquired knowledge of the students will be assessed by written and/or oral and/or practical tests.
Applying knowledge and understanding - The aspects concerning the application of the knowledge that will be acquired include the ability to: i) analyse and identify the parasitic fauna of marine organisms; ii) orient the parasitological study in different contexts; iii) critically interpret the scientific contributions/publications in various fields of marine parasitology.
Making judgments - The development of critical thinking skills is a core objective of the course. Students will learn to: i) evaluate the reliability and validity of scientific data and methodologies in marine parasitology; ii) assess the ecological and environmental impacts of parasitic interactions within marine ecosystems; iii) integrate interdisciplinary perspectives, considering both biological and ecological dimensions in their analyses. Through case studies, research projects, and critical reviews of current literature, students will practice forming evidence-based conclusions and making informed judgments about complex parasitological issues.
Communication skills - The exercise of critical analysis and the knowledge acquired on fundamental concepts and methodologies in parasitology will allow the ability to formulate autonomous personal evaluations. Students will develop the capability to independently critique and question established theories and practices in marine parasitology, fostering a mindset of continuous inquiry and improvement.
Learning skills - The knowledge acquired and the use of bibliographic sources can allow the application of learning methods to contexts other than those specifically dealt with in the course. Students will be equipped with the skills to continuously update their knowledge and adapt to new scientific advancements in the field of marine parasitology and related disciplines.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

Parasitism in comparison with other ecological interactions. Definition of parasitism, hyperparasitism and polyparasitism. Definition of parasite. Types of parasites and hosts, modes of transmission, general life cycles, the concept of zoonosis. Origin of parasitism and adaptive strategies: morphological, physiological, invasion and evasion strategies of the host's immune system, strategies for manipulating the host's phenotype. Systematics of the main groups of parasites: Protozoa, Myxozoa, Digenea, Monogenea, Cestoda, Nematoda, Acanthocephala, Hirudinea, Crustacea. Marine parasites as ecological indicators. Dissection and sampling of marine parasites. Molecular Biology Approaches in Marine Parasitology. Molecular systematics and phylogeny of marine parasites. Co-evolutionary aspects of parasite-host. Monothematic seminars. Practise.

examMode

The oral exam will be carried out according to the "Regolamento didattico di Ateneo". The oral exam is aimed to ascertain the candidate's preparation on the topics of marine parasitology covered during the lessons.

books

Marine Parasitology - Klaus Rohde
Parasites of Marine Fish and Cephalopods - Sven Klimpel, Thomas Kuhn, Julian Muster et al.
Evolutionary Parasitology - Paul Schmid-Hempel

mode

The course is organized into lectures and practical exercises.

classRoomMode

Optional but strongly recommended attendance.

bibliography

Euzet and Combes, 1998. The selection of habitats among the monogenea.
Palm et al., 2011. Fish Parasites as Biological Indicators in a Changing World: Can We Monitor Environmental Impact and Climate Change?
Kumar et al., 2013. Immune evasion mechanism of parasites in fish.
Sanchez et al., 2016. When Parasites Are Good for Health: Cestode Parasitism Increases Resistance to Arsenic in Brine Shrimps.
Sures et al., 2017. Parasites as drivers of key processes in aquatic ecosystems: Facts and future directions.

119965 - MARINE BIOLOGY

ARMANDO MACALI

First Semester 6BIO/07eng

Learning objectives

Educational objectives
The loss of marine biodiversity represents one of the most significant environmental challenges of the 21st century. Marine ecosystems, which harbour a remarkable variety of species and provide essential ecosystem services, are undergoing rapid decline due to a range of anthropogenic pressures. These include overfishing, pollution, coastal habitat destruction, increase of alien species and climate change, which leads to ocean acidification and warming. The degradation of biodiversity not only threatens species' survival but also compromises the capacity of marine ecosystems to support crucial economic activities such as fishing, tourism, and the extraction of raw materials. In response to these challenges, the European Union has developed the "Blue Growth" strategy, which aims to promote sustainable economic growth in the marine and maritime sectors. This strategy acknowledges the critical importance of protecting and restoring marine biodiversity as a key pillar for long-term economic development. Through the analysis of ecosystem services and an integrated approach to managing marine resources, "Blue Growth" seeks to balance the need for economic development with the conservation of the marine environment. One of the central objectives of "Blue Growth" is the monitoring of marine ecosystems using advanced tools such as in situ observations, predictive models, and remote sensing data. This multidisciplinary approach allows for the assessment of ecosystem health and the identification of areas where human pressures most severely threaten biodiversity. Monitoring is essential to ensure that maritime economic activities are conducted sustainably, respecting the capacity of marine ecosystems to recover.
The integration of oceanographic, biological, and geological knowledge is crucial for understanding the dynamics of marine ecosystems and developing effective protection and management policies. In this context, the Marine Biology course equips students with the necessary skills to address these complex issues, preparing them to actively contribute to the conservation of marine biodiversity within the framework of European and global policies.
Knowledge and understanding - Gain a comprehensive understanding of marine ecosystems, from pelagic zones to coastal regions, essential for evaluating potential anthropogenic disturbances and ecosystem alterations at various spatial and temporal scales. Develop the ability to independently study and analyse marine environmental issues, enabling students to engage in public and private sector activities, including policy-making and environmental management.
Applying Knowledge and understanding - Adopt an experimental approach to the study of marine ecosystems using key sampling techniques and biodiversity assessment. These will be explored both in theory during lectures and practically in field exercises.
Making judgements -Cultivate critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate and address marine, oceanic, and coastal environmental challenges presented throughout the course. Students will develop competence in assessing these issues with the necessary expertise and insight.
Communication skills - Gain proficiency in communicating scientific concepts and findings related to marine biology, employing accurate scientific language and terminology when discussing the key topics covered in the course.
Learning skills - Develop the capacity to apply the knowledge gained during lectures and practical exercises to real-world cases, integrating various topics learned throughout the course for effective problem-solving and decision-making in marine biology.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

Introduction to Marine Biology.
Overview of the main physicochemical and hydrodynamic characteristics of the marine environment.
Genesis of the Mediterranean Sea.
Morphological and physiological characteristics of marine organisms. Plankton; Benthos; Nekton.
Biological adaptations to marine environments.
Mediterranean marine biodiversity. Species and habitats.
Interspecific relationships: characteristics and adaptations.
Allochthonous species.

examMode

Oral exam

books

The slides provided in class serve as the study material

classRoomMode

Optional but strongly recommended

bibliography

Introduction to the Physical and Biological Oceanography of Shelf Seas
Cambridge University Press
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9781139034098


Invertebrate Zoology: A Tree of Life Approach. Stati Uniti, CRC Press, 2021.
ISBN: 9781482235821, 148223582X

OPTIONAL GROUP - -- -
APPLIED BIOORGANIC

BRUNO MATTIA BIZZARRI

First Semester6CHIM/06eng

Learning objectives

Knowledge and understanding - The principles of organic reactivity that underlie the functioning of biological systems and the development of biomimetic systems.
Applying knowledge and understanding - Mastery of basic knowledge relating to organic chemistry, correlating them to the main reactive pathways and the different types of supramolecular interactions underlying the reactions that occur in living systems.
Making judgments - Ability to recognize the main classes of biological and biomimetic reactions and the main chemical interactions (bonding and non-binding) that regulate them;
Communication skills - On the topic of the course.
Learning skills - Students will have to be able to apply the acquired knowledge in an appropriate, relevant and flexible way in order to elaborate, adopting appropriate chemical symbols, the biosynthetic and biomimetic reactions studied in depth in the course. In the laboratory part, students will apply theoretical knowledge to simple reactions of biological interest by appropriately processing the data obtained experimentally with the aim of studying the reaction trend, developing methods of quantification and purification of compounds of biological origin, determining the course regio and stereochemical of enzymatic reactions and perform reactions of biochemical relevance with biomimetic synthesis catalysts.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

General Section:
Introduction (Definitions, Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics)
Receptor (Types and Classification)
Enzyme kinetic solutions. Dynamic kinetic resolutions
Pharmacophore (Concepts and examples)
Pharmaceutical Chemistry (Concepts and history)
Catalytic perfection of enzymes. Classification of enzymes. Stereochemistry in enzymatic reactions.
Effects of proximity, orientation and distortion. Intramolecular catalysis. Effective molarity. Distortion of the substrate. Specificity, selectivity and recognition, substrate selectivity.
Mechanism of action of enzymes, drugs:
NAD and NADP, FAD, Biotin, thiamine pyrophosphate, folic acid, ascorbic acid, pyridoxal phosphate, chemical role of vitamins.
- Enzymatic reactions with group transfer: hydrolysis (peptidase, lipase and esterase), phosphorylation (hydrolysis of phosphoric esters. Phosphatase and phosphodiesterase), transamination.
- Redox reactions with NAD-dependent enzymes (alcohol dehydrogenase) and FAD-dependent (monooxygenase and glutathione reductase) and metal-dependent enzymes (cytochromes P450).
- Reactions involving C-C bond formation and scission, via carbanion (class 1 and 2 aldolase), carbocation (squalene oxide cyclase), radical (methylmalonyl CoA mutase). Examples of pericyclic reactions, nucleophilic substitutions, 1,2-eliminations, decarboxylations and carboxylations.
- Bio-catalyzed radical reactions.

-Examples of the application of enzymes such as hydrolases in the production of enantiopure amino acids (natural and non-natural) and compounds for the pharmaceutical industry. Use of dehydrogenases in bio-catalysis and problems related to the regeneration of the cofactor.
- Catalytic antibodies.

Lab. activities:

-Enzymatic catalysis for the kinetic resoution and/or for specific chemical reaction reactions.

examMode

The learning test includes an oral test in which knowledge of the topics of the course will be ascertained and the laboratory experiences and related reports will be critically discussed.

books

Bioorganic Chemistry: Highlights and New Aspects
Ulf Diederichsen (Editor), Thisbe K. Lindhorst (Editor), B. Westermann (Editor), Ludger A. Wessjohann (Editor)
ISBN: 978-3-527-29665-1

Professor's slides

mode

Theoretical lessons: teaching is organized in frontal lessons.
Laboratory experiences: The course includes a series of practical laboratory experiences. These laboratory days will be preceded by a series of lectures regarding the description of the experiences integrated with quick insights into the main analysis techniques used.
The teaching material will be available on the University Moodle platform.

classRoomMode


Attendance is not mandatory but strongly recommended

bibliography

Bioorganic Chemistry: Highlights and New Aspects
Ulf Diederichsen (Editor), Thisbe K. Lindhorst (Editor), B. Westermann (Editor), Ludger A. Wessjohann (Editor)
ISBN: 978-3-527-29665-1

Professor's slides

PLANT BIOLOGY AND RESTORING OF COASTAL MARINE ECOSYSTEMS

LAURA ZUCCONI GALLI FONSECA

First Semester6BIO/03eng

Learning objectives

Educational objectives
The aim of the course is to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and understanding of plant diversity, adaptation strategies to the environment, coastal plant communities, and beach dynamics. This knowledge is crucial for understanding the conservation status of these fragile and threatened ecosystems, monitoring them, and identifying the most appropriate strategies for their protection and restoration.
The course aims to provide a foundation for a deeper comprehension and study of the plant components of coastal ecosystems.
Knowledge and understanding - Develop knowledge and understanding of the diversity of plant organisms and coastal communities, highlighting their adaptation to the unique conditions of coastal environments.
Applying knowledge and understanding - Apply the knowledge acquired at lesson to interpret potential changes in communities composition and functionality due to variations in environmental parameters.
Making judgments - Formulate hypotheses independently in response to potential issues, and efficiently share and support these hypotheses within the scientific community and with stakeholders.
Communication skills -Students will be encouraged to acquire and use scientifically accurate terminology related to the topics covered, also by the preparation of self-developed material.
Learning skills - Stimulate curiosity and deepen knowledge of the plant world through engaging field activities.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

Flora, Raunkiær plant life-forms, chorotypes.
Landscape ecology. Fire consequences on vegetation.
The shape of the coasts and their classification
Factors acting on the shores: waves, tides, winds
Sea level changes
Adaptations of plants to salinity, aridity and wind
Rocky shores, cliffs
Colonization of rocks, soil formation, ecological succession
Vegetation of rocky coasts
Mediterranean maquis and climax vegetation
The beaches: formation, classification, turnover and morphology
Human impact on the beaches
Marine phanerogams.
Dune: definition, formation, zoning
Psammophilous vegetation, adaptations and succession of dunes
Degradation of the dune system
Plant communities
Coastal environments at risk: lagoons, coastal lakes and brackish ponds and their vegetation
The mangroves
Fire and pyrophytism
Biodiversity conservation, red lists and germplasm bank
Botanic excursion

examMode

The exam consists of an oral test on the topics covered in the lectures, with the possibility for the student to propose a topic on an in-depth study.
The vote is expressed in thirtyths, with honors possible. Passing the exam requires a mark of at least eighteen/thirtieths and the attribution of the necessary university training credits.
The following factors will be considered when evaluating the tests and assigning the final grade: the level of knowledge of the contents demonstrated (superficial, appropriate, precise and complete, complete and thorough), the ability to apply the theoretical concepts (errors in applying the, fair, good, well established), the capacity for analysis, synthesis, and interdisciplinary connections (sufficient, good, excellent), the capacity for critical sense and the formulation of judgments (sufficient, good, excellent), the mastery of expression (exposition deficient, simple, clear and correct, safe and correct).

books

Power point presentations provided by the professor.
Quaderni habitat _ Ministero dell’Ambiente (available online)

mode

Oral lessons, pdf presentations, field practices

classRoomMode

Attendance to lessons is not required, but strongly recommended

bibliography

Supplementary material in the form of scientific articles or texts will be provided by the teacher

119970 - BIOLOGY AND APPLICATIONS OF MARINE FUNGI AND ALGAE

MARCELLA PASQUALETTI

Second Semester 7BIO/02eng

Learning objectives

Educational objectives
The course will enable students to understand the peculiar morphological, physiological and metabolic characteristics of algae and marine fungi, their role in the marine environment and interactions with other organisms. Furthermore, it will allow to know the basic techniques for their sampling and taxonomical identification. The course will provide a framework for understanding current issues related to algae and marine fungi and their potential applications (i.e. their importance for other marine organisms, their potential in biotechnology, the harmful algae blooms). The course will provide the necessary insights to understand the ecological peculiarities of algae and marine fungi.
Knowledge and understanding - To get the knowledge regarding the basic principles of biology, physiology and ecology of algae and marine fungi and their potential in biotechnology.
Applying knowledge and understanding - To understand the main ecosystem issues concerning algae and marine fungi with particular regard to interactions with the other biotic components including humans. To acquire the basic knowledge regarding the experimental approach to study the fungal and algal communities.
Making judgements -The ability to construe the results obtained by the various studies in phycology and marine mycology. The ability to understand the role of the studied organisms in the environment and their influence on the biology of other organisms.
Communication skills - Ability to effectively communicate and/or share knowledge about phycology and marine mycology, the significance of these organisms in marine environments, and their interactions with other living organisms, with specialists and non-specialists in the specific field.
Learning skills - Ability to describe scientific topics related to phycology and marine mycology both in written and oral forms by a specific scientific/technical language. Ability to use the methods acquired for recognition and cultivation of algae and fungi. This ability will be developed also trough the active involvement of the students in discussions during the lectures and by laboratory experiences.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

Introduction to the course, knowledge verification test of plant biology.
Algae definition; photosynthesis in aquatic environments: problems and solutions. The role of algae in biogeochemistry and technological applications. The diversification of eukaryotic algae: endosymbiosis.
Cellular organization, anatomy, sexual and asexual reproduction, biochemistry, biotechnology and ecology of the major algal phyla:
Cyanobacteria (Cyanophyceae )
Glaucophyta
Rhodophyta (Cyanidophyceae, Porphyridiophyceae, Rhodellophyceae, Compsopogonophyceae, Bangiophyceae, Florideophyceae )
Chlorophyta: Prasinophhyceae, Chlorophyceae, Ulvophyceae, Trebuxiophyceae class and Charophycean algae.
Chromophyta: (Chrysophyceae, Synurophyceae, Tribophyceae, Eustigmatophyceae, Raphydophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Phaeophyceae)
Cryptophyta, Prymnesiophyta, Dinophyta, Euglenophyta, Chlorarachniophyta.
Phytoplankton, macroalgal and periphyton ecology.
Introduction to the marine fungi: biology, ecology, biotecnology.
Macroalgae: collection, classification and preparation of dry macroalgae samples (Exsicata).
Microalgae: collection, microscopic observations, taxonomical classification.
Marine fungi: collection of algal samples, Isolation of algicolous fungi, microscopic observations, taxonomical classification.
Screening for the production of metabolites / enzymes of industrial interest.
Svolgimeno
Lectures (48 h), laboratory experiences and educational excursions (7h).
Lesson attendance is highly suggested.
The student will be assessed through questions regarding the entire program carried out.

examMode

The student will be assessed through questions regarding the entire program carried out.

books

Barsanti L., Gualtieri P. 2006. Algae, anatomy, Biochemistry and Biotecnology. Taylor & Francis. NW.

Graham L.E., Graham J.M., Wilcox L.W. 2009.Algae (second edition) Pearson Benjamin Cummings. San Francisco.

Hoek C., Mann D.G., Jahns, H.M. 1995. Algae. An introduction to phycolgy. Cambridge University press.


Rodriguez-Prieto et al., 2015. Alghe e Fanerogame del Mediterraneo. Il Castello

mode

Lectures (48 h), laboratory experiences and educational excursions (7h).

classRoomMode

Lesson attendance is highly suggested.

bibliography

Pasqualetti M., Bernini R., Carletti L., Crisante F., Tempesta S., 2010 - Salinity and nitrate concentration on the growth and carotenoids accumulation in a strain of Dunaliella salina (Chlorophyta) cultivated under laboratory conditions. Transitional Water Bulletin, 4: 42-52, ISSN: 1825-229X, doi: 10.1285/i1825229x.

Tempesta S, Paoletti M., Pasqualetti M., 2010 - Morphological and molecular identification of a strain of the unicellular green alga Dunaliella sp. isolated from Tarquinia salterns. Transitional Water Bulletin,. 4: 8-18, ISSN: 1825-229X, doi: 10.1285/i1825229x.


Malavasi V., Škaloud P., Rindi F., Tempesta S., Paoletti M., Pasqualetti M. 2016.The Pitfalls of DNA-based Taxonomy: a Reevaluation of the Species Concept within the Coccoid Green Algal Genus Coccomyxa (Trebouxiophyceae, Chlorophyta). PLOS ONE, 1-25, ISSN:1932-6203, doi: 10.1371/jurnal.pone.0151137.

Pasqualetti M., Barghini P., Giovaninni V., Fenice M. 2019. High production of chitinolytic activity in halophilic conditions by a new marine strain of Clonostachys rosea. Molecules, ISSN: 1420-3049, doi: 10.3390/molecules24101880.

Giovannini V., Barghini P., Gorrasi S., Fenice M., Pasqualetti M. 2019. Marine fungi: a potential source of novel enzymes for environmental and biotechnological applications. Journal of Environmental Protection and Ecology, 20:1214-1222, ISSN: 1311-5065.

Botta L., Saladino R., Barghini P., Fenice M., Pasqualetti M. 2020. Production and identifcation of two antifungal terpenoids from the Posidonia oceanica epiphytic Ascomycota Mariannaea humicola IG100. Microbial Cell Factories, 19, ISSN: 1475-2859, doi: 10.1186/s12934-020-01445-7.

Pasqualetti M., Giovannini V., Barghini P., Gorrasi S., Fenice M. 2020. Diversity and ecology of culturable marine fungi associated with Posidonia oceanica leaves and their epiphytic algae Dictyota dichotoma and Sphaerococcus coronopifolius. Fungal Ecology, 44, 100906, ISNN:1754-5048, doi: 10.1016/j.funeco.2019.100906.

119972 - MARINE MICROBIOLOGY

MASSIMILIANO FENICE

Second Semester 6BIO/19eng

Learning objectives

Educational objectives
The course will enable an understanding of the morphological, physiological, and metabolic characteristics of marine microorganisms (mainly prokaryotes), covering also their environmental role and interactions with other marine organisms. The course will enable an understanding of the primary interactions between marine microorganisms and the environment, with particular attention to some extreme marine environments, also in relation to the biogeochemical cycles. The course will supply a reference framework to comprehend modern aspects related to the marine microbial world and the potential applications of useful microorganisms.
Knowledge and understanding - To get knowledge regarding the peculiarities of marine microbial biology, their metabolism, their role in the marine environment, their interaction with other organisms, and their potential in biotechnology.
Applying Knowledge and understanding -To understand the issues related to the relationships between marine microorganisms and the environment (including other organisms). To acquire knowledge regarding the experimental approach to studying the marine microbial world.
Making judgements -The ability to construe the results obtained by the various studies in marine microbiology. The ability to understand the role of marine microorganisms in the environment and their influence on the biology of other organisms.
Communication skills - Ability to effectively communicate and/or share knowledge about marine microbiology, the significance of microorganisms in marine environments, and their interactions with other living organisms, with specialists and non-specialists in the specific field.
Learning skills - Ability to describe scientific topics related to marine microbiology both in written and oral forms by a specific scientific/technical language. Ability to use the methods acquired for microorganism sampling, recognition/identification and cultivation. This ability will be developed also through the active involvement of the students in discussions during the lectures, laboratory experiences and field activities.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

1) Theory (40 hours, 5 CFU)
Introduction. Marine microbiology among the Microbiological disciplines. Topics of marine microbiology, history and objectives. Marine environments and microorganisms. The physicochemical marine environment (notes). Methods and techniques of marine microbiology (reminders of General microbiology). Microscopy and flow cytometry. Sampling, cultivation and characterization of marine microorganisms. Identification of marine microorganisms (PCR, FISH, sequencing, etc.) Study of marine communities: DGGE, TRFLP, PLFA, clone libraries (notes). NGS, metagenetic and metagenomic. Diversity of marine microorganisms. Phototropic (oxygenic and anoxygenic) bacteria. Nitrifying, anammox, S- and Fe- oxidizing bacteria. Sulfate-reducing, luminescent, halophilic, methanogenic and methanotroph bacteria. Marine Archaea: Euryarchaeota, Crenarchaeota, etc. Hyperthermophilic, Hyperhalophilic and Hyperacidophilic archaea Marine microbial ecology. The microbial loop. The bio-geochemical cycles (reminders from general microbiology). Marine snow. Relationship between marine microorganisms and other marine organisms. Symbiosis, parasitism, pathogenicity. Microbiology of extreme or peculiar marine environments: estuaries and other transition zones. The deep seas, the hyperhaline environments. Marine microorganisms and human beings. Biofouling and biodeterioration, Marine biotechnology. Production of enzymes bio-polymers, biodegradation. Human pathogens and marine environments. Waterborne diseases and microbiological analysis of water.

2) Practical lectures and laboratory (they could vary in relation also to the possibility of making sea excursions) (8 hours, 1 CFU). Sampling of marine microorganisms. Microbial counts. Isolation, cultivation and classification of marine microorganisms. Study of marine bacterial diversity. Screening for industrial microbial metabolites. Microbiological analysis of water.

examMode

The evaluation (minimum score of 18/30) will consist of two parts: a written examination and a student project.

Written examination
The main part of the student evaluation will consist of a written examination of the whole course program, including the topics covered during practical/laboratory lectures.
The written examination will consist of various multiple-choice questions and 2-3 open questions to evaluate the student's knowledge and comprehension of the course topics.
The written examination will be considered approved by a minimum score of 18/30.
Student Projects:
Groups of students will select a topic on marine microbiology to be deepened by a literature survey and presented through PowerPoint presentations (Master Classes).
The student project will only contribute to improving the score obtained by the written examination and refining the final evaluation score.

books

Brock, Madigan, Martino, Parker, "Brock biologia dei microrganismi", CEA Ambrosiana, terza edizione 2007, volume 1 e 2.
Biologia dei microrgamismi di G. Dehò e E. Galli, Casa Editrice Ambrosiana, 2018.
Barbieri, Bestetti, Galli, Zannoni- Microbiologia ambientale ed elementi di ecologia microbica - Casa Editrice Ambrosiana, edizione 2008
Colin Munn - Marine Microbiology: ecology and applications – Garland Science, Taylor & Francis Group, 2nd edition (2011)
http://www.nature.com/nrmicro/focus/marinemicrobiology/index.html
The lectures slides (PDF) are available on line.
During the course, some scientific publications will be distributed and discussed.

mode

The course will consist of oral lectures regarding the published program and supported by PowerPoint presentations (available online on Moodle platform). Some scientific papers, concerning specific topics, will be discussed too. The discussion of specific literature will be also carried out by presentations carried out by student groups.

classRoomMode

Attendance to classes is not mandatory, but strobgly suggested.

bibliography

-PESCIAROLI C., CUPINI F., SELBMANN L., BARGHINI P. and FENICE M. 2012. Temperature preferences of bacteria isolated from sea water collected in Kandalaksha Bay, White Sea, Russia. Polar Biol 35: 435-445. *
-SILVI S., BARGHINI P., AQUILANTI A., JURAEZ-JIMENEZ B., and FENICE M. 2013. Physiologic and metabolic characterization of a new marine isolate (BM39) of Pantoea sp. producing high levels of exopolysaccharide. Microb Cell Fac 12:10. DOI: 10.1186/1475-2859-12-10*
-PESCIAROLI C., RODELAS B., JUAREZ-JIMÉNEZ B., BARGHINI P. and FENICE M. 2015. Bacterial community structure of a coastal area in Kandalaksha Bay, White Sea, Russia: possible relation to tidal hydrodynamics. Ann. Microbiol. 65: 443-453.*
-PESCIAROLI C., BARGHINI P., CERFOLLI F., BELLISARIO B., and FENICE M. 2015. Relationship between phylogenetic and nutritional diversity in Arctic (Kandalaksha Bay) seawater planktonic bacteria Ann. Microbiol. 65: 2405-2414.* DOI 10.1007/s13213-015-1083-4*
-TIMPERIO A.M., GORRASI S., ZOLLA L. AND FENICE M. 2017. Evaluation of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and MALDI BioTyper in comparison to 16S rDNA sequencing for the identification of bacteria isolated from Arctic sea water. Plos-One. 12, 7. Article number e0181860. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181860*
-BARGHINI, P., PASQUALETTI, M., GORRASI, S., and FENICE, M. 2018. Bacteria from the “Saline di Tarquinia” marine salterns revealing very atypical growth profiles in relation to salinity and temperature Mediterr. Mar. Sci, 19 (3) 513-525. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.12681/mms.15514,*
-PASQUALETTI M., BARGHINI P., GIOVANNINI V., AND FENICE M. 2019. High production of chitinolytic activity in halophilic conditions by a new marine strain of Clonostachys rosea. Molecules. 24(10), 1880 10.3390/molecules24101880*
-GORRASI, S., PESCIAROLI, C., BARGHINI, P., PASQUALETTI, M. AND FENICE M. 2019. Structure and diversity of the bacterial community of Kandalaksha Bay (White Sea, Russia), a complex Arctic estuarine system submitted to intense tidal currents. J. Mar. Syst. 196: 77-85.
-PASQUALETTI, M., GIOVANNINI, V., BARGHINI, P., GORRASI, S., AND FENICE M. 2020. Diversity and ecology of culturable marine fungi associated with Posidonia oceanica leaves and their epiphytic algae Dictyota dichotoma and Sphaerococcus coronopifolius. Fungal Ecology 40, Published on line.

120011 - MARINE ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION - 12- -

Learning objectives

MARINE ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION – Module B
Educational objectives
The course aims to provide solid knowledge on the fundamentals of behavioural biology and the related processes that occur and regulate the functioning of marine animal communities in an evolutionary framework.
Knowledge and understanding -The knowledge acquired will concern the general principles on which the behavioural mechanisms and processes, up to the individual level, determine intra- and inter-specific interactions, distribution, abundance and the relationships with the biotic and abiotic environment.
Applying knowledge and understanding -The application of knowledge will be focused on understanding the multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary and integrative nature of the topics covered, including applied aspects.
Making judgements -The ability to formulate autonomous assessments can be exercised in the interpretation phase of the results, during the practical, and using the critical reading of the scientific literature to independently investigate behavioural ecology issues with an integrative approach based on proximate and ultimate causation of behaviour.
Communication skills - These skills will be developed through the exercise of self-expression (interventions in class) as well as in critically reading and discussing assigned scientific articles
Learning skills - The deepening of knowledge will allow to deal with complex and multi-scalar disciplines and problems, and with the variety of investigation methods inherent to them, to formulate solid and evidence-based scientific questions on behavioural ecology issues

MODULO A DI MARINE ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION

PAOLO FRANCHINI

First Semester6BIO/07eng

Learning objectives

MARINE ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION -Module A
Educational objectives
The module aims to provide solid knowledge on the ecological and evolutionary processes that regulate the functioning of marine ecosystems.
Knowledge and understanding -The knowledge acquired will concern the general principles on which the mechanisms that determine the distribution, abundance and relationships with the biotic and abiotic environment of marine organisms are based.
Applying knowledge and understanding -The application of knowledge will be focused on understanding the multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary and integrative nature of the topics covered. Specific areas of applied knowledge that will be focused on will be conservation biology, global change biology, invasion biology
Making judgements-The ability to formulate autonomous assessments of specific issues of ecological and evolutionary importance will be exercised using the critical reading and collective discussions of the scientific literature.
Communication skills - Students will develop these skills through the exercise of self-expression (interventions in class) to address research questions and through a master class session at the end of the course.
Learning skills - Student will further improve their ability to learn and, consequently, to formulate solid and evidence-based scientific questions, through the analysis of the complex and multi-scalar problems that characterizes ecological and evolutionary investigations.

MODULO B DI MARINE ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION

CLAUDIO CARERE

First Semester6BIO/05eng

Learning objectives

MARINE ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION – Module B
Educational objectives
The course aims to provide solid knowledge on the fundamentals of behavioural biology and the related processes that occur and regulate the functioning of marine animal communities in an evolutionary framework.
Knowledge and understanding -The knowledge acquired will concern the general principles on which the behavioural mechanisms and processes, up to the individual level, determine intra- and inter-specific interactions, distribution, abundance and the relationships with the biotic and abiotic environment.
Applying knowledge and understanding -The application of knowledge will be focused on understanding the multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary and integrative nature of the topics covered, including applied aspects.
Making judgements -The ability to formulate autonomous assessments can be exercised in the interpretation phase of the results, during the practical, and using the critical reading of the scientific literature to independently investigate behavioural ecology issues with an integrative approach based on proximate and ultimate causation of behaviour.
Communication skills - These skills will be developed through the exercise of self-expression (interventions in class) as well as in critically reading and discussing assigned scientific articles
Learning skills - The deepening of knowledge will allow to deal with complex and multi-scalar disciplines and problems, and with the variety of investigation methods inherent to them, to formulate solid and evidence-based scientific questions on behavioural ecology issues

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

Fundamentals of ethology. History of the study of animal behaviour and its integrative nature; the four questions of Tinbergen. Proximate and ultimate control of behaviour. Designing research on animal behaviour. What to observe and what to measure. Neuroendocrine substrates of behaviour. Development and plasticity of behaviour. Imprinting; maternal effects. The role of genes and environment. Animal communication. Cognitive eco-ethology. Adaptive value and behavioural ecology. The role of behaviour in evolution. Mate choice and reproductive systems. Animal personality. Stress response. Social behaviour and group living. Migration, orientation and navigation. Animal welfare.

Behavioural ecology of marine organisms. Behavioural adaptations: insular coastal fauna, pelagic environment; diving in marine mammals, life in depth. Social behaviour; schooling, group dynamics and self-organization; coloniality; parental care, territoriality, aggression; sexual inversion; foraging strategies. Orientation, migration and homing. Acoustic communication; chemical communication; bioluminescence; electrolocation.

Study methodologies. Methods of capture and marking; hypothesis testing; experimental designs, measurement of behaviour in the field and in controlled conditions (examples). Tracking methods: satellite tracking, geolocators, accelerometers. Softwares for behavioural analysis.

Applied ethology. Behavioural ecotoxicology; endocrine disruptors; effects of anthropogenic disturbance. Effects of climate change. The behaviour of invasive species. Relevance of behavioural studies in the conservation and management of marine biodiversity. Ethorobotics. Behaviour and aquaculture.

examMode

The exam, in oral form, takes place in the forms established by the University Teaching Regulations. A formal report is drawn up for this purpose, signed by the President, by the members of the commission and by the student examined. The vote is expressed in thirtieths, with possible praise. Passing the exam requires the awarding of a grade not lower than eighteen / thirty and involves the assignment of the corresponding university educational credits. In the evaluation and in the attribution of the final grade, the following will be taken into account: the level of knowledge of the contents (superficial, appropriate, excellent); the ability to apply the theoretical concepts (errors in applying the concepts, superficial, good, excellent); the capacity for analysis, synthesis and interdisciplinary connections (sufficient, good, excellent); the capacity of critical judgment (sufficient, good, excellent); the mastery of expression (logic flow, clarity, proper terminology).

books

Alcock J 2013 Animal Behaviour. An Evolutionary Approach. Oxford University Press
Bateson M, Martin P 2022 Measuring behaviour: an introductory guide. Fourth Edition. Cambridge University Press
Bogliani G, Carere C., Cervo R. Grasso D., Luschi P. 2022 Etologia. Lo studio del comportamento animale, UTET
Krebs JR, Davies NB (eds) 2012 Behavioural Ecology. An Evolutionary Approach- Blackwell
Manning A, Dawkins MS 2012 An Introduction to Animal Behaviour. Cambridge University Press

mode

Lectures (ppt slides, videos) with active interaction with the students, stimulation on specific topics and coaching for the choice of potential thesis projects. Discussion of case studies. Seminars on specific issues. Collective discussion of scientific papers. Practicals and field excursions.

classRoomMode

There is no obligation to attend but it is strongly recommended

bibliography


Carere C, Grignani G, Bonanni R, Della Gala M, Carlini A, Angeletti D, Cimmaruta R, Nascetti G, Mather JA 2015 Consistent individual differences in the behavioural responsiveness of adult male cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) Appl Anim Behav Sci 167, 89-95
Canestrelli D, Bisconti R, Carere C. 2016 Bolder takes all? The behavioural dimension of biogeography. Trends Ecol Evol 31, 35-43
Carere C, Mather JA (Eds.) 2019 The Welfare of Invertebrate Animals. Springer International Publishing, Cham
Carere C, Nascetti G, Carlini A, Santucci D, Alleva E 2015 Actions for restocking of the European lobster (Homarus gammarus): a case study on the relevance of behaviour and welfare assessment of cultured juveniles. Rend Lincei 26, 59-64
Carere C, Maestripieri D (Eds.). 2013 Animal Personalities: Behavior, Physiology, and Evolution. The University of Chicago Press, Chicago, London.
Chiatante GP, Carere C, 2024 Flight initiation distance in waterbirds of two coastal wetlands with different protection regimes Rend Fis Acc Lincei 36, 293-303
Latini L, Nascetti G, Grignani G, Bello E, Polverino G, Canestrelli D, Carere C 2023 Limited holding space reduces growth and behavioural performance in juvenile European lobsters Appl Anim Behav Sci 266, 106013
Macali A, Ferretti S, Scozzafava S, Gatto E, Carere C 2024 Different behavioural profiles between invasive and native nudibranchs: means for invasion success? Curr Zool in press
Storms RF, Carere C, Musters R, van Gasteren H, Verhulst S, Hemelrijk CK 2022 Deterrence of birds using an artificial predator, the RobotFalcon. J Roy Soc Interface 19, 20220497
Zoratto F, Cordeschi G, Grignani G, Bonanni R, Alleva E, Nascetti G, Mather JA, Carere C 2018 Variability in the "stereotyped" prey capture sequence of male cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) could relate to personality differences. Anim Cogn 21, 773-785
Zoratto F, Ciabattoni F, Ledda E, Racca A, Carlini A, Santucci D, Alleva E, Carere C 2022 Behavioural changes in farmed sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) experimentally infected by Anisakis nematodes. Rend Fis Acc Lincei 33, 555-567

119973 - MARINE MICROBIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY

PAOLO BARGHINI

Second Semester 6CHIM/11eng

Learning objectives

Educational objectives
The course aims to introduce the student to the so-called “Blue Biotechnology”. Notions will be provided on the importance of the biodiversity of marine microorganisms for the production and exploitation of new biomolecules that can be used in various biotechnological and environmental fields. Attendance and participation in the planned training activities (lectures and laboratory activities) will allow the student to acquire the knowledge necessary to understand the technological approaches used to produce goods and services deriving from the study and use of marine microorganisms and to be able to use the new technologies applied.
Knowledge and understanding - To get knowledge regarding and understand the main issues related to biotechnology in general and marine biotechnology in particular.
Applying knowledge and understanding -To know and understand the issues related to the application of marine biotechnology, with particular reference to production techniques using latest-generation technologies.
Making judgements - Express independent judgments on the resolution of problems related to marine biotechnology; ability to interpret data obtained from microbial cultivations in order to optimize production.
Communication skills - To acquire communication skills and the ability to share knowledge acquired in the field of marine biotechnology and the applicative importance that this topic has in the industrial sector.
Learning skills - Ability to use marine microorganisms as a source of metabolites and enzymes for industrial processes and “drug discovery”; techniques applied to marine microbial biodiversity. Ability to use industrial technologies to cultivate bacteria, fungi and marine microalgae of biotechnological interest on a large scale. Know the different process optimization strategies. Know the technologies used for the genetic transformation of marine microorganisms and the methods of managing transgenic organisms. Identify the main marine sources of enzymes and bioactive products; the main uses of microalgae for the production of feed, cosmetics and active ingredients of pharmacological interest. These skills will also be developed through the active involvement of students in discussions during lectures, laboratory experiences and field activities.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

Introduction to Marine Microbial Biotechnology. Bacteria, fungi and marine algae: possible biotechnological applications. Metabolites and enzymes of industrial interest produced by microalgae, fungi and marine bacteria. Bioreactors: technologies for the production of molecules and enzymes of industrial interest produced by marine microorganisms. Optimization and scale-up of production processes and technologies for product recovery. Use of molecular techniques for the improvement of productive strains. Production facilities and growth methods of microalgae. Open and closed systems, photobioreactors. Examples of the main biotechnological applications; production of carotenoids and food supplements; production of nutrients and nutraceutical molecules; production of molecules with pharmacological activity produced by marine fungi. Marine environmental biotechnology and bioremediation.

examMode

The exam, in written form, takes place in the forms established by art. 23 of the University Didactic Regulations. A special report is drawn up of its development, signed by the President and by the members of the commission and by the student examined. The vote is expressed in thirtieths, with possible praise. Passing the exam presupposes the conferment of a grade of not less than eighteen / thirty and involves the assignment of the corresponding university credits. In the evaluation of the tests and in the assignment of the final mark will take into account: the level of knowledge of the demonstrated contents (superficial, appropriate, precise and complete, complete and in-depth), the ability to apply the theoretical concepts (errors in applying the concepts , discrete, good, well established), the capacity for analysis, synthesis and interdisciplinary links (sufficient, good, excellent), the capacity for critical sense and the formulation of judgments (sufficient, good, excellent), of mastery of expression (lacking, simple, clear and correct, expert and correct).

books

Material provided by the teacher.

mode

The course includes: 48 hours of classroom lectures by using slides in PowerPoint and classic chalkboard.

classRoomMode

Attendance at lessons is not mandatory

bibliography

Braconcini M, Gorrasi S, Fenice M, Barghini P, Pasqualetti M (2024). Rambellisea gigliensis and Rambellisea halocynthiae, gen. et spp. nov. (Lulworthiaceae) from the Marine Tunicate Halocynthia papillosa. JOURNAL OF FUNGI, vol. 10, ISSN: 2309-608X, doi: 10.3390/jof10020127

Pasqualetti M, Giovannini V, Barghini P, GorrasiS, Fenice M (2020). Diversity and ecology of culturable marine fungi associated with Posidonia oceanica leaves and their epiphytic algae Dictyota dichotoma and Sphaerococcus coronupifolius. FUNGAL ECOLOGY, ISSN: 1754-5048, doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/J.FUNECO.2019.100906

Botta L, Saladino R, Barghini P, Fenice M, Pasqualetti M (2020). Production and identification of two antifungal terpenoids from the Posidonia oceanica epiphytic Ascomycota Mariannaea humicola IG100. MICROBIAL CELL FACTORIES, vol. 19, ISSN: 1475-2859, doi: 10.1186/s12934-020-01445-7

Pasqualetti M, Barghini P, Giovannini V, Fenice M (2019). High Production of Chitinolytic Activity in Halophilic Conditions by a New Marine Strain of Clonostachys rosea. MOLECULES, ISSN: 1420-3049, doi: 10.3390/molecules24101880

Gorrasi S, Pesciaroli C, Barghini P, Pasqualetti M, Fenice M (2019). Structure and diversity of the bacterial community of an Arctic estuarine system (Kandalaksha Bay) subject to intense tidal currents.. JOURNAL OF MARINE SYSTEMS, vol. 196, p. 77-85, ISSN: 0924-7963, doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmarsys.2019.04.004

PESCIAROLI C, BARGHINI P, CERFOLLI F, BELLISARIO B, FENICE M (2015). Relationship between phylogenetic and nutritional diversity in Arctic (Kandalaksha Bay) seawater planktonic bacteria. ANNALS OF MICROBIOLOGY, vol. 65, p. 2405-2414, ISSN: 1590-4261, doi: 10.1007/s13213-015-1083-4

SUBJECTSEMESTERCFUSSDLANGUAGE
119978 - ELECTIVE MODULE

First Semester 12eng
119976 - APPLIED OCEANOGRAPHY AND ECOSYSTEM DYNAMICS

MARCO MARCELLI

First Semester 7BIO/07eng

Learning objectives

With the affirmation in international law of the "Exclusive Economic Zone" concept, and with the adoption of ecological protection areas, Italy has to face the problem of protecting the marine environment from a different perspective, which consider not only the coastal areas but also the offshore zones. In this perspective the continental shelf shall be considered an extension of the national territories where hydrocarbons, materials for the ceramic industry, glass industry, metallurgy are extracted and fishing, mariculture and tourism are practiced. Moreover, there is concentrated a growing maritime traffic and almost all the marine engineering works. The coastal marine domain is characterized on one side by physical and ecological conditions that favor life, and on the other side by the multiple uses of the spaces that generate a high conflict between human activities. The new European strategy of "Blue Growth" also explicitly defines the criteria for the sustainable management of maritime spaces and the monitoring of marine ecosystems through analysis of ecosystem services and an integrated approach that provides in situ observations, forecasting models and remote sensing data.
Because the common asset of the sea, an interdisciplinary approach to the marine management in its most general sense is of primary importance, with expertise in meteorology, oceanography, geology and biology.

Expected learning outcomes:
1) Knowledge and understanding:
Having developed knowledge and understanding of the components of marine ecosystems, from pelagic to coastal, necessary for the evaluation of possible sources of anthropogenic disturbance and alteration of the marine ecosystem, at different spatial and temporal scales.
Having developed the ability to study and analyze the various issues concerning the marine environment with which the student will be able to independently deal with the various activities and interventions in public institutions and in the private field.

2) Applying knowledge and understanding:
Experimental approach to the study of marine ecosystems and the study of their possible alterations through the use of the main sampling techniques and analysis methodologies presented during the lectures and carried out during the didactic exercises.

3) Making judgments:
To be able to evaluate and deal with the study of the different issues concerning the marine, oceanic and coastal environment presented during the course with adequate skills, competences and a critical sense.

4) Communication skills;
Being able to master the main issues addressed during the course with a correct scientific language.

5) Ability to learn (learning skills).
To be able to apply the knowledge acquired, during lectures and exercises, to cases that require the integration of the topics covered during the course.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

The role and importance of seas and oceans.

Part I: Oceanic and ecological dynamics and their spatial and temporal scales
Elements of geography and representation of the earth's surface, hints of morphology and evolution of the ocean floor. Origin of the sea and oceans and properties of marine waters. Elements of chemistry, physics and dynamics of the seas and oceans.
The boundary conditions and the influence of the continental environment on the coastal marine system.
Coastal morphology and dynamics.
Marine, oceanic and coastal habitats. The zoning of the benthos and the Mediterranean benthic biocoenoses: the classifications of Perès Picard and Riedl.
Vertical and horizontal distribution of oceanographic and ecological quantities. Marine ecological dynamics: biogeochemical cycles, ecological successions. Spatial and temporal scales of the physical and ecological dynamics of marine and oceanic environments: phenomena and processes at micro, meso and macro scale.

Part II: Renewable and non-renewable resources, uses of the coastal strip
The concept of natural resource. Marine, renewable resources (fisheries and aquaculture, renewable energies
marine) and non-renewable (mining and quarrying activities in the coastal and offshore areas). The use of the sea and the coastal strip. Categories and classification of uses.

Part III: The problems of the coastal strip, marine pollution and deposition environments.
Principles of protection and conservation of the marine environment. Marine environment management tools.
Pollution in the coastal marine environment: contamination and deposition environments.
Classification, fate and cycle of pollutants.
The problem of coastal erosion and the concept of physiographic unit. Coastal morphotypes. Beach dynamics and nourishment.
Bioaccumulation and biomagnification, alteration of the trophic structure, alteration of the biocoenoses.
Human time scales and anthropogenic impact scales. Residence time. Climate changes.
Sustainable development, natural capital valuation and other management tools. Outline of marine environmental protection legislation.
Case histories on different themes and at different spatial and temporal scales.

Part IV: Platforms and measuring instruments. Sampling equipment. Experimental methods.
The problem of measurement and sampling scales. The definition of the sampling plan and the identification of the variables to be measured: the descriptors of the marine environment. Problems related to environmental monitoring.
Data acquisition platforms and systems and their relative spatial and temporal scales (oceanographic vessels, satellites and airplanes, towed and autonomous underwater vehicles, oceanographic buoys, beacons and stations, ARGOs and drift buoys).
Measuring instruments and methods: physico-chemical characteristics and optical properties of sea water; direct and indirect measurements of biomass and primary production; dynamic characteristics. Acoustic instruments: active (depth; ecological and geomorphological characteristics of the seabed) and passive (sounds and noise).
Equipment and methods for sampling, storage and transport of samples: sea water, phyto and zooplankton, bottom sediments, benthos. Laboratory equipment and methods in marine ecology. Direct investigation methods using a diver.

Part V: Data analysis and mathematical models.
Data structure; instruments calibration; errors, their causes, data filtering techniques.
Statistical data analysis. Methods of data analyses. Databases and GIS. International sharing of datasets.
Theory and application of mathematical models. Limits and development possibilities.

examMode

Written and oral exam

The purpose of the written test is a preliminary assessment preparatory to the oral exam.
The oral exam will have as its objective the verification of the knowledge and skills acquired during the course through the adequate exposure and argumentation of the topics addressed in the program and of the learning objectives.

books

Recommended reference texts:
• Mann, Kenneth Henry, and John RN Lazier. Dynamics of marine ecosystems: biological-physical interactions in the oceans. John Wiley & Sons, 2013.
• TRUJILLO, A. P.; THURMAN, H. V. Introductory Oceanography. 2007.
• Danovaro, Roberto. Biologia marina: biodiversità e funzionamento degli ecosistemi marini. Città studi edizioni, 2013.

mode

Frontal lessons

Experimental activities

Seminars

Field didactic experiences

Organized external visits

classRoomMode

Discretionary

bibliography

Recommended reference texts:
• Mann, Kenneth Henry, and John RN Lazier. Dynamics of marine ecosystems: biological-physical interactions in the oceans. John Wiley & Sons, 2013.
• TRUJILLO, A. P .; THURMAN, H. V. Introductory Oceanography. 2007.
• Danovaro, Roberto. Marine biology: biodiversity and functioning of marine ecosystems. City studies editions, 2013.

119977 - MARINE BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION

ROBERTA CIMMARUTA

First Semester 7BIO/07eng

Learning objectives

Main aims of this course are: (1) to understand the mechanisms underlying bioviersity patterns in the marine environment; (2) to learn about characteristics and consequences of human impact on all levels of marine biodiversity; (3) to know the conservation strategies suitable to preserve and restore marine biodiversity at population, species and ecosystem level.

Knowledge and Understanding
The acquired knowledge will concern the main anthropogenic impacts causing the current massive loss of biodiversity in the marine environment, besides the most important management and conservation strategies to counteract this loss. Furthermore, students will learn how the different levels of hierarchical organization of marine biodiversity respond differentially to the same impacts and how this requires to differentiate conservation strategies to be effective. This objective is reflected in the organization of the program which runs through the hierarchical scale of biodiversity organization (genetics, populations, ecosystems), providing for each level both basic scientific knowledge and the examination of numerous case studies. In this way, students will develop the ability to both understand complex phenomena and plan articulated management strategies.

Applied Knowledge and Understanding
The knowledge acquired will be applied on the management and conservation strategies to be implemented to protect marine biodiversity. Comprehension skills will be applied by encouraging students to deal with real case studies.

Independent Evaluation
The ability to formulate independent evaluations will be exercised thanks to the interdisciplinary and multilevel reasoning required by this discipline and by the analysis of the case studies proposed, that need the merging of complex and heterogeneous data to be understood.

Communication skills
These skills will be developed through the exercise of one's own expression (interventions during the lessons) and in the coordination of group activities, especially during numerical exercises.

Ability to learn
The many concepts learned and the connections linking them all will stimulate a “learning-by-reasoning” process, essential to fully understand ecological mechanisms.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

Biodiversity Conservation: Introduction to the course aims; Definitions, aims and goals of conservation; Global traits to marine biodiversity; The Evil Quartet
Conservation genetics and Population Conservation: Patterns and mechanisms of genetic diversity: measuring genetic biodiversity; Hardy-Weinberg law; Effective population size and genetic drift; Gene flow and population subdivision; Conservation genetics: Demography, genetic diversity and extinction; Minimum Viable Population; Extinction vortex; Conservation Units, Operational Taxonomic Units; Focal Species, Umbrella, Indicators, Flagship species; Invasive species, Hybridization; IUCN, Red List; Conservation Strategies (in-situ, ex-situ)
Community and ecosystem diversity: Measuring Biodiversity at the level of community and habitat; Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning; Italian law on protected Areas; “Habitat” EU Directive 92/43/CEE, Rete Natura 2000; Marine Protected Areas (MPA): scope, design, management, problems and perspectives; MPA: enforcement and results; MPA Networks: connectivity, representativeness, effectiveness; Functional diversity

examMode

The oral exam will be carried out according to the "Regolamento didattico di Ateneo". At least three questions will be asked, encompassing the three hierarchical levels of the marine biodiversity.

books

F.W. Allendorf, W.C. Funk, S.N. Aotken,M. Byrne, G. Luikart, 2022. Conservation and the Genetics of Populations – 2nd edition, Wiley-Blackwell

M.J. Kaiser, M.J. Attrill, 2020. Marine Ecology: Processes, Systems, and Impacts. Oxford University Press

The PDFs of the slides presented in class will be available along with scientific papers, manuals and other materials.

mode

Lectures, numerical exercises (using R software to measure community diversity).
Attending classes and exercises is not mandatory but strongly encouraged.

classRoomMode

Attending classes is not mandatory but strongly encouraged as well as classroom exercises.

bibliography

The PDFs of the slides presented in class will be available along with scientific papers, manuals and other materials.

119979 - INTERNSHIP

Second Semester 3eng
119980 - EXPERIMENTAL THESIS

Second Semester 30eng

Learning objectives

Educational objectives
The aim of the course is to acquire theoretical-practical cognitive tools for the study and monitoring of marine ecosystems; the acquisition of knowledge and skills, including practical ones, in the context of the study of the marine ecosystem. The course will allow students to learn about the main sampling and monitoring techniques of Mediterranean coastal marine environments, community legislation and institutional monitoring. It will also allow them to carry out simple sampling in practice, subsequently verifying in the laboratory the validity of the techniques carried out in the field.
The aim of the course is to build an educational path that, through lectures and practical exercises, allows the student to know the main methods of study and analysis of marine habitats and the main benthic biocoenoses of the Mediterranean.
Knowledge and understanding - Develop knowledge and understanding skills relating to the components of marine ecosystems and the legislation that regulates their monitoring;
Applying knowledge and understanding - Developing an experimental approach to the study of marine ecosystems and the study of their possible alterations;
Making judgments - To be able to evaluate and face with adequate skills, competences and critical sense the study of the different issues concerning the marine, oceanic and coastal environment presented during the course;
Communication skills - Being able to discuss the main issues addressed during the course with a correct scientific language;
Learning skills - To be able to apply the knowledge acquired, during lectures and exercises, to cases that require the integration of the topics covered during the course.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

The course will take place according to the following structure:
Introduction. Chemical-physical and hydrodynamic characteristics of sea water. Morphological and geological characteristics of the seabed. The zonation of the benthos and the Mediterranean benthic biocenoses. Sampling methodologies and techniques and direct and indirect analysis of the different environmental matrices: sampling representativeness, technical skills, destructive and non-destructive sampling, conservation and main identification and control methods
Community and national environmental legislation. Case histories on community and habitat alterations.
Exercises related to the topics of the course

examMode

oral exam
the objective of the oral exam is to verify the knowledge relating to the topics covered during the course and the ability to connect between the different topics

books

RIEDL R. (2005) - Fauna e Flora del Mediterraneo. Muzzio Editore: 800 pp.
Steele, J. H., Thorpe, S. A., & Turekian, K. K. (2009). Measurement techniques, sensors and platforms: a derivative of Encyclopedia of ocean sciences.
Lecture notes by the Professor and data sheets available on the Internet

classRoomMode

Optional in the classroom

bibliography

RIEDL R. (2005) - Fauna e Flora del Mediterraneo. Muzzio Editore: 800 pp.
Steele, J. H., Thorpe, S. A., & Turekian, K. K. (2009). Measurement techniques, sensors and platforms: a derivative of Encyclopedia of ocean sciences.

Learning objectives

Educational objectives
The course aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of marine parasitology, including the biology, systematics, and ecological roles of marine parasites. Students will acquire practical skills in parasite identification and analysis, alongside the use of modern scientific methodologies. The course also encourages critical thinking and the ability to apply learned knowledge across different ecological research contexts.
Knowledge and skills of understanding - Results concerning the expected acquired knowledge will mainly concern: biological aspects of marine parasites (systematics, life cycles, adaptive evolutionary aspects of the endo-ectoparasites, reproductive strategies, host-manipulation); methodological approaches in the study of marine parasites (collection and storing of parasites, integrative taxonomy, molecular systematics, phylogeny, genomics and transcriptomics, statistical analysis of epidemiological data); biodiversity (knowledge and recognition of the major systematic groups of parasites of marine organism, with particular concerns of the Mediterranean Sea). The acquired knowledge of the students will be assessed by written and/or oral and/or practical tests.
Applying knowledge and understanding - The aspects concerning the application of the knowledge that will be acquired include the ability to: i) analyse and identify the parasitic fauna of marine organisms; ii) orient the parasitological study in different contexts; iii) critically interpret the scientific contributions/publications in various fields of marine parasitology.
Making judgments - The development of critical thinking skills is a core objective of the course. Students will learn to: i) evaluate the reliability and validity of scientific data and methodologies in marine parasitology; ii) assess the ecological and environmental impacts of parasitic interactions within marine ecosystems; iii) integrate interdisciplinary perspectives, considering both biological and ecological dimensions in their analyses. Through case studies, research projects, and critical reviews of current literature, students will practice forming evidence-based conclusions and making informed judgments about complex parasitological issues.
Communication skills - The exercise of critical analysis and the knowledge acquired on fundamental concepts and methodologies in parasitology will allow the ability to formulate autonomous personal evaluations. Students will develop the capability to independently critique and question established theories and practices in marine parasitology, fostering a mindset of continuous inquiry and improvement.
Learning skills - The knowledge acquired and the use of bibliographic sources can allow the application of learning methods to contexts other than those specifically dealt with in the course. Students will be equipped with the skills to continuously update their knowledge and adapt to new scientific advancements in the field of marine parasitology and related disciplines.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

Parasitism in comparison with other ecological interactions. Definition of parasitism, hyperparasitism and polyparasitism. Definition of parasite. Types of parasites and hosts, modes of transmission, general life cycles, the concept of zoonosis. Origin of parasitism and adaptive strategies: morphological, physiological, invasion and evasion strategies of the host's immune system, strategies for manipulating the host's phenotype. Systematics of the main groups of parasites: Protozoa, Myxozoa, Digenea, Monogenea, Cestoda, Nematoda, Acanthocephala, Hirudinea, Crustacea. Marine parasites as ecological indicators. Dissection and sampling of marine parasites. Molecular Biology Approaches in Marine Parasitology. Molecular systematics and phylogeny of marine parasites. Co-evolutionary aspects of parasite-host. Monothematic seminars. Practise.

examMode

The oral exam will be carried out according to the "Regolamento didattico di Ateneo". The oral exam is aimed to ascertain the candidate's preparation on the topics of marine parasitology covered during the lessons.

books

Marine Parasitology - Klaus Rohde
Parasites of Marine Fish and Cephalopods - Sven Klimpel, Thomas Kuhn, Julian Muster et al.
Evolutionary Parasitology - Paul Schmid-Hempel

mode

The course is organized into lectures and practical exercises.

classRoomMode

Optional but strongly recommended attendance.

bibliography

Euzet and Combes, 1998. The selection of habitats among the monogenea.
Palm et al., 2011. Fish Parasites as Biological Indicators in a Changing World: Can We Monitor Environmental Impact and Climate Change?
Kumar et al., 2013. Immune evasion mechanism of parasites in fish.
Sanchez et al., 2016. When Parasites Are Good for Health: Cestode Parasitism Increases Resistance to Arsenic in Brine Shrimps.
Sures et al., 2017. Parasites as drivers of key processes in aquatic ecosystems: Facts and future directions.

Learning objectives

Knowledge and understanding - The principles of organic reactivity that underlie the functioning of biological systems and the development of biomimetic systems.
Applying knowledge and understanding - Mastery of basic knowledge relating to organic chemistry, correlating them to the main reactive pathways and the different types of supramolecular interactions underlying the reactions that occur in living systems.
Making judgments - Ability to recognize the main classes of biological and biomimetic reactions and the main chemical interactions (bonding and non-binding) that regulate them;
Communication skills - On the topic of the course.
Learning skills - Students will have to be able to apply the acquired knowledge in an appropriate, relevant and flexible way in order to elaborate, adopting appropriate chemical symbols, the biosynthetic and biomimetic reactions studied in depth in the course. In the laboratory part, students will apply theoretical knowledge to simple reactions of biological interest by appropriately processing the data obtained experimentally with the aim of studying the reaction trend, developing methods of quantification and purification of compounds of biological origin, determining the course regio and stereochemical of enzymatic reactions and perform reactions of biochemical relevance with biomimetic synthesis catalysts.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

General Section:
Introduction (Definitions, Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics)
Receptor (Types and Classification)
Enzyme kinetic solutions. Dynamic kinetic resolutions
Pharmacophore (Concepts and examples)
Pharmaceutical Chemistry (Concepts and history)
Catalytic perfection of enzymes. Classification of enzymes. Stereochemistry in enzymatic reactions.
Effects of proximity, orientation and distortion. Intramolecular catalysis. Effective molarity. Distortion of the substrate. Specificity, selectivity and recognition, substrate selectivity.
Mechanism of action of enzymes, drugs:
NAD and NADP, FAD, Biotin, thiamine pyrophosphate, folic acid, ascorbic acid, pyridoxal phosphate, chemical role of vitamins.
- Enzymatic reactions with group transfer: hydrolysis (peptidase, lipase and esterase), phosphorylation (hydrolysis of phosphoric esters. Phosphatase and phosphodiesterase), transamination.
- Redox reactions with NAD-dependent enzymes (alcohol dehydrogenase) and FAD-dependent (monooxygenase and glutathione reductase) and metal-dependent enzymes (cytochromes P450).
- Reactions involving C-C bond formation and scission, via carbanion (class 1 and 2 aldolase), carbocation (squalene oxide cyclase), radical (methylmalonyl CoA mutase). Examples of pericyclic reactions, nucleophilic substitutions, 1,2-eliminations, decarboxylations and carboxylations.
- Bio-catalyzed radical reactions.

-Examples of the application of enzymes such as hydrolases in the production of enantiopure amino acids (natural and non-natural) and compounds for the pharmaceutical industry. Use of dehydrogenases in bio-catalysis and problems related to the regeneration of the cofactor.
- Catalytic antibodies.

Lab. activities:

-Enzymatic catalysis for the kinetic resoution and/or for specific chemical reaction reactions.

examMode

The learning test includes an oral test in which knowledge of the topics of the course will be ascertained and the laboratory experiences and related reports will be critically discussed.

books

Bioorganic Chemistry: Highlights and New Aspects
Ulf Diederichsen (Editor), Thisbe K. Lindhorst (Editor), B. Westermann (Editor), Ludger A. Wessjohann (Editor)
ISBN: 978-3-527-29665-1

Professor's slides

mode

Theoretical lessons: teaching is organized in frontal lessons.
Laboratory experiences: The course includes a series of practical laboratory experiences. These laboratory days will be preceded by a series of lectures regarding the description of the experiences integrated with quick insights into the main analysis techniques used.
The teaching material will be available on the University Moodle platform.

classRoomMode


Attendance is not mandatory but strongly recommended

bibliography

Bioorganic Chemistry: Highlights and New Aspects
Ulf Diederichsen (Editor), Thisbe K. Lindhorst (Editor), B. Westermann (Editor), Ludger A. Wessjohann (Editor)
ISBN: 978-3-527-29665-1

Professor's slides

Learning objectives

Educational objectives
The aim of the course is to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and understanding of plant diversity, adaptation strategies to the environment, coastal plant communities, and beach dynamics. This knowledge is crucial for understanding the conservation status of these fragile and threatened ecosystems, monitoring them, and identifying the most appropriate strategies for their protection and restoration.
The course aims to provide a foundation for a deeper comprehension and study of the plant components of coastal ecosystems.
Knowledge and understanding - Develop knowledge and understanding of the diversity of plant organisms and coastal communities, highlighting their adaptation to the unique conditions of coastal environments.
Applying knowledge and understanding - Apply the knowledge acquired at lesson to interpret potential changes in communities composition and functionality due to variations in environmental parameters.
Making judgments - Formulate hypotheses independently in response to potential issues, and efficiently share and support these hypotheses within the scientific community and with stakeholders.
Communication skills -Students will be encouraged to acquire and use scientifically accurate terminology related to the topics covered, also by the preparation of self-developed material.
Learning skills - Stimulate curiosity and deepen knowledge of the plant world through engaging field activities.

Teacher's Profile

courseProgram

Flora, Raunkiær plant life-forms, chorotypes.
Landscape ecology. Fire consequences on vegetation.
The shape of the coasts and their classification
Factors acting on the shores: waves, tides, winds
Sea level changes
Adaptations of plants to salinity, aridity and wind
Rocky shores, cliffs
Colonization of rocks, soil formation, ecological succession
Vegetation of rocky coasts
Mediterranean maquis and climax vegetation
The beaches: formation, classification, turnover and morphology
Human impact on the beaches
Marine phanerogams.
Dune: definition, formation, zoning
Psammophilous vegetation, adaptations and succession of dunes
Degradation of the dune system
Plant communities
Coastal environments at risk: lagoons, coastal lakes and brackish ponds and their vegetation
The mangroves
Fire and pyrophytism
Biodiversity conservation, red lists and germplasm bank
Botanic excursion

examMode

The exam consists of an oral test on the topics covered in the lectures, with the possibility for the student to propose a topic on an in-depth study.
The vote is expressed in thirtyths, with honors possible. Passing the exam requires a mark of at least eighteen/thirtieths and the attribution of the necessary university training credits.
The following factors will be considered when evaluating the tests and assigning the final grade: the level of knowledge of the contents demonstrated (superficial, appropriate, precise and complete, complete and thorough), the ability to apply the theoretical concepts (errors in applying the, fair, good, well established), the capacity for analysis, synthesis, and interdisciplinary connections (sufficient, good, excellent), the capacity for critical sense and the formulation of judgments (sufficient, good, excellent), the mastery of expression (exposition deficient, simple, clear and correct, safe and correct).

books

Power point presentations provided by the professor.
Quaderni habitat _ Ministero dell’Ambiente (available online)

mode

Oral lessons, pdf presentations, field practices

classRoomMode

Attendance to lessons is not required, but strongly recommended

bibliography

Supplementary material in the form of scientific articles or texts will be provided by the teacher

CHOICE GROUPSYEAR/SEMESTERCFUSSDLANGUAGE
OPTIONAL GROUP -12 - -
119966 - MARINE MONITORING

VIVIANA PIERMATTEI

First Year / First Semester 6BIO/07eng
119967 - MARINE PARASITOLOGY

MARIA LETIZIA PALOMBA

First Year / First Semester 6VET/06eng
119968 - APPLIED BIOORGANIC

BRUNO MATTIA BIZZARRI

First Year / Second Semester 6CHIM/06eng
119969 - PLANT BIOLOGY AND RESTORING OF COASTAL MARINE ECOSYSTEMS

LAURA ZUCCONI GALLI FONSECA

First Year / Second Semester 6BIO/03eng