Entry requirements

120 credits including alt 1) 40 credit points/60 credits biology and 20 credit points/30 credits chemistry or 20 credit points/30 credits earth science. alt 2) 60 credit points/90 credits biology.

Learning outcomes

The general aim of the course is to give students knowledge of relevance for their future career in limnology, in research or with an applied focus. On completion of the course, the student should be able to

• account for structure and dynamics in biogeochemical cycles and organism communities
• analyse and evaluate abiotic and biotic conditions in aquatic systems
• carry out basic sampling and analyses in freshwater field/laboratory systems
• plan and carry out experiment/field studies
• present and evaluate experiment/field studies both orally and in writing.

In the course, an introduction to Master's studies is included. After passing this module, the student should be able to:

• show awareness of ethical aspects of research and development including questions concerning plagiarism
• demonstrate an understanding of the potential applications of biology, limitations and its role in society
• take personal responsibility for acquiring knowledge.

Content

The course communicates an ecosystem perspective on inland water, which comprises both physical, chemical and biological parts. Various types of inland water will be studied such as nutritious flatland lakes and nutrient-poor forest lakes.

Lake morphometry. The optical and thermal properties of water, dissolved gases, trace elements, nutrients, dissolved salts and organic substances. Sampling theory is also included, as well as sedimentology, palaeolimnology and an orientation in aquatic environmental problems such as eutrophication and acidification.

Limnetic ecosystems and communities including phytoplankton, macrophytes, zooplankton, benthic fauna, fish, and bacteria will be included. Common species and characteristic species for different lake types are discussed. Seasonal variation and its steering factors, as well as growth and nutrient demands in different organism groups are also included in this part of the limnology course. Furthermore, microbial limnology and the role of bacteria in the cycling of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as aerobic and anaerobic microbial processes are included.

Field course. Practical training in sampling and analyses, collaborative projects in groups, and in oral and written presentation.

Instruction

The teaching be given in the form of lectures, seminars, computer exercises, field course and laboratory sessions. Participation in seminars, field course and laboratory sessions are compulsory.

Assessment

Modules: Species taxonomy 5 credits; Field course 4 credits; Theory 6 credits. The module species taxonomy is examined through written species tests. The field course requires active participation and oral and written presentations. The theory part requires active participation in seminars and laboratory sessions and passed written exam. For the Introduction to Master's Studies Seminars active participation in seminars, a written report, and the completion of a study plan, are required.

Other directives

The course can not be credited in a degree together with 1BG202 Limnology.