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Marine Ecology & Conservation

MARECO, the introductory module in marine ecology, outlines key marine patterns, processes, and ecosystems, equipping students with tools for their study. It also examines global human-induced threats and conservation strategies, with a special emphasis on Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and habitat restoration.

program: Science & Society
code name: MARECO
module family: #Marine Biology #Science & Society
credits: 4 ECTS
semester: Fall (semester 1)

UN Sustainable Development Goals:

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Students should

critically examine and evaluate theories and models in marine ecology to understand biological interactions and the dynamics within marine ecosystems.
develop the ability to understand and identify key ecological processes and patterns that drive productivity and system functions in diverse marine environments such as coral reefs, mangroves, salt marshes, seaweed habitats, seagrass beds, and polar ecosystems.
compare and contrast different marine systems, with a special focus on the Mediterranean ecosystem, to identify unique characteristics and common threats across global marine environments.
identify and analyze the major anthropogenic impacts on marine ecosystems, focusing on large-scale disturbances such as climate change, ocean acidification, and global disruptions.
explore and identify effective conservation measures, understanding the scientific and practical aspects of marine conservation including habitat restoration and the establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

TOPICS

Marine Ecology
- Introduction to Biological Oceanography
- Structures & patterns of ocean productivity
- Processes (biotic and abiotic factos)
- Systems (coral reefs, mangroves, salt marsh, seaweeds, seagras, polar)
- Focus: the Mediterranean ecosystem
Global disturbances
- Climate change
- Ocean acidification
Marine Conservation
- Measures of protection
- Science of conservation
- Habitat restoration