Freshwater and Marine Ecology (B-KUL-G0R62A)
Aims
The master has a profound knowledge of the basic principles of freshwater and marine ecology, and integrates them in the general biological knowledge of the biosphere. He thereby relies on relevant knowledge on complementary scientific disciplines (such as physics, chemistry, biochemistry, geology and climatology) and biological subdisciplines (such as biodiversity, evolution, ecology, physiology and molecular biology). He deals critically with the international professional literature and tackles new complex problems independently. He makes use of advanced knowledge of theories and models, concepts and processes to work with complex freshwater and marine ecological data. The master communicates his findings from the literature written and orally in English and implements teamwork. He puts his knowledge in a socio-ethical perspective and interprets it. He is informed of the latest international developments and methods.
During the field excursions the master works in teams to acquire insights and skills specific to freshwater and marine ecology. He manages critically new knowledge and addresses new issues independently. He evaluates the risks and biological safety of research at sea.
Please, realise that theory and excercises are organised in the first semester, the exam is in January, the day excursion marine ecology is in early May and the final marks are known in June.
Previous knowledge
Basic knowledge of ecology
Order of Enrolment
This course unit is a prerequisite for taking the following course units:
G0W35A : Behavioural and Advanced Ecology: Field Course
Is included in these courses of study
- Master of Water Resources Engineering (Leuven et al) (Option Specialized Knowledge and Skills in Water Resources Engineering and Modelling) 120 ects.
- Master of Water Resources Engineering (abridged programme 60 ECTS) (Leuven et al) 60 ects.
- Master of Biology (Leuven) 120 ects.
- ICP Master of Science in Sustainable Development (Leuven) (Specialisation: Ecology) 120 ects.
- Master of Bioscience Engineering: Agro- and Ecosystems Engineering (Leuven) (Major Subject: Forest, Nature and Landscape Systems) 120 ects.
Activities
3.5 ects. Freshwater and Marine Ecology: Lectures (B-KUL-G0R62a)
Content
ntroduction to:
- the aquatic environment
- freshwater ecology
- marine ecology
Cases in freshwater ecology, such as:
- tropical and arid aquatic ecology
- temporary ponds
- rivers
- paleolimnology
Cases in marine ecology, such as:
- estuaries, continental shelf
- open ocean
- fisheries
Integrated discussion
Course material
Scientific papers and text book Marine Ecology (M. Kaiser)
1.5 ects. Freshwater and Marine Ecology: Exercises (B-KUL-G0R63a)
Content
Recent fundamental and applied topics in the field of Freshwater and Marine Ecology.
Course material
Scientific articles
Format: more information
Topics in Freshwater and Marine Ecology will be addressed using readers, discussion groups and peer teaching.
1 ects. Freshwater and Marine Ecology: Excursion (B-KUL-G0R64a)
Content
Guided marine excursion with the research vessel O.S. Simon Stevin based on 5 learning activities linked to the themes of water, plankton, benthos, fish and birds. In case of inclement weather an alternative program is scheduled in the harbor (visit of O.S. Simon Stevin, demonstration of sampling material and visit of VLIZ or ILVO offices).
Guided excursion to a freshwater system discussing research questions and approaches, ecosystem functioning and ecosystem services.
Course material
Excursion notes
Format: more information
Guided excursions are an effective way to have the students experience actively the local freshwater biota and the marine biota of the Belgian coast
Evaluation
Evaluation: Freshwater and Marine Ecology (B-KUL-G2R62a)
Explanation
A student passes when (s)he obtains at least 10/20 for the weighted final score (theoretical exam 70%, assignments 30%).
Participation in all practical exercises is obligatory. Students who do not participate in a practical exercise without a valid reason cannot take the theoretical exam.
Information about retaking exams
There is no second evaluation of the practical exercises during the same academic year; results of the first evaluation period will be considered.