Entry requirements

120 credits including alternative 1) 60 credits biology and 30 credits chemistry or 30 credits earth sciences, or alternative 2) 90 credits biology, and for both alternatives Limnology I, 15 credits.

Learning outcomes

The course intends to prepare the student for work and research within the field of limnology by providing advanced knowledge in aquatic ecology with a focus on how organisms, populations and communities interact with each other as well as with the environment. On completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• apply limnological knowledge both in relation to current basic research, and with a focus on current environmental changes
• present and evaluate various types of studies both orally and in written form
• independently or in groups, plan and carry out samplings and laboratory experiments as well as compile, critically analyse and evaluate received results
• design mathematical and other theoretical models, and test them empirically
• account for and carry out various types of analyses of microorganisms and their activity
• communicate theories, complex problems and research results

Content

The course is given in close collaboration to the research activity and includes

• the structure, function and dynamics of the aquatic food webs
• biodiversity and its regulation and connection to ecosystem function
• biogeochemical cycles.

The different parts include microbiological processes in water and sediments as well as ecological and evolutionary processes in aquatic habitats. Ecological processes in the pelagic zone are related to important processes both in littoral and sediments to provide an understanding of ecological and biochemical interactions between different habitats. A scientific approach is emphasised through simulation of theoretical models interleaved with experiments, lectures and seminars. The students carry out individual literature projects concerning environmental changes in aquatic systems, the projects are presented in written form and orally at seminars. The course also includes field sampling during winter conditions. Written and oral reports, that are made during the course, prepare the students for future work as limnologists or within close areas of activity.

Instruction

The teaching is given in the form of lectures, seminars, computer and field exercises as well as laboratory sessions. Participation in seminars, computer and field exercises as well as laboratory sessions is compulsory.

Assessment

Modules: Aquatic food webs 4 credits; Biogeochemistry 4 credits; Diversity and microbial ecology 4 credits; Literature assignment 3 credits

The module Literature assignment requires written report and participation in oral seminar. Other modules are examined through written examination and require written reports that are presented orally at seminars.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the disability coordinator of the university.