Entry requirements

At least two years of basic courses in Natural Sciences, equivalent to 50 points/75 ECTS credits in Biology and 20 points/30 ECTS credits in Chemistry. Biology courses should include Cell Biology, Genetics and Gene Technology, Structure and Physiology of Organisms, and Ecology. In addition, the course Limnology MN1 must be completed.

Learning outcomes

The course deals with aquatic ecology with a focus on how organisms, populations and communities interact with one another and with the environment. After the course, the student shall be able to

• explain structure and function of different aquatic systems
• explain and combine important processes within and between different parts of an aquatic system
• explain and combine the processes that lead to a sustainable development of aquatic systems
• present and evaluate different types of studies both oral and written
• independent or in groups plan and carry out laboratory experiment and field studies
• be able to work with basic applications of GIS (geographic information systems)
• compile, critically analyse and evaluate results
• apply a scientific working method within limnology by - design mathematical models and simulate these on computers - carry out different microbial analyses such as measurement of primary producers and heterotrophic
• account for the production and biomass of bacteria both in water and in sediments
• carry out common chemical analyses of water and sediment
• carry out quantitative analyses of benthic fauna and fish
• communicate theories, complex problems and research findings with specialists and non-specialists in issues that lie within the scope of the course content

Content

The course is given in close connection to the research activity. Particularly, the structure, function and dynamics of the aquatic food web are treated. The different parts comprise microbiological processes in water, sediment and ecological and evolutionary processes of organisms within and between habitats. Ecological processes in the pelagic zone are related to important processes in littoral and sediments to give understanding of ecological and biochemical interactions between different habitats. Emphasis is placed on a scientific working method where simulation of theoretical models is sandwiched with experiments, lectures and seminars. The course also contains a field section with group project, where sampling and analysis is practised under winter conditions. The group assignment is presented orally and in writing. This report writing and the different compilations that are made during the course prepare the student for future work in limnology and related fields.

Modules: Exercises and seminars 4.5 credits; field course 4.5 credits; literature course 6 credits

Instruction

The teaching is given in the form of lectures, group tuition, seminars, field exercises and laboratory sessions. Attendance in field and laboratory work and connected lessons is compulsory.

Assessment

Participation in seminars, laboratory sessions, computer exercises (4.5 credits) and field course (4.5 credits) are compulsory and required for the passing grade. The theory part has a written examination equivalent to 6 credits.