Course content

This course is an introduction to marine ecology and covers important terms and concepts in ecology. Marine ecology is the interplay of marine organisms and these organisms with the environment. The main topics include:

The abiotic environment;

Oceanography;

Population ecology;

Interactions between organisms and their environment;

Biotic interactions;

Life-history strategies;

Marine productivity and bioenergetics;

Important pelagic and benthic systems;

Anthropogenic changes and impacts;

Examples of marine innovation.

Learning outcome

Learning outcome - Knowledge:
The candidate can:

explain important ecological terms and concepts;

describe and compare relevant marine ecosystems;

describe important abiotic factors and their importance for marine organisms;

explain selected models of biotic interactions;

explain and give examples of different life-history strategies;

describe effects of human activity on marine systems.


Learning outcome - Skills:
The candidate can:

use selected methods for pelagic and benthic sampling;

use selected laboratory methods for the examination of biological material;

apply the IMROD format to write reports;

discuss effects of human activity on marine organisms and the marine environment.

Learning outcomes - General competence:
The candidate:

has insight into consequences of the exploitation of marine systems;

can discuss ecological topics with professionals in the field.

Learning methods and activities

Pedagogic methods:

Lectures (30 hours), exercises (6 hours), fieldwork (20 hours) and laboratory exercises (15 hours).

Compulsory assignments:

Approved reports based on fieldwork and laboratory exercises.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

MK 103112 Introduction to Chemistry
MB104314 Marine biology

Course materials

Course material will be specified at the beginning of the semester.

Credit reductions