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AB-321
Marine Benthic Fauna of Svalbard (10 ECTS)
Ph.D. course, also suitable for M.Sc.
Application deadline: 15. April 2011
Objective:
To acquaint the student with animal life on Arctic seafloors, benthic population ecology and community features in relation to environmental conditions with focus on invertebrates. Practical knowledge will be provided with regard to sampling and treatment of samples, identification of organisms, methods for the study of life-histories of selected organisms and statistical tools for the description of benthic community structures.
Content:
The course presents the variety in the benthic fauna of Svalbard, from the fjord environments to the open coast. The benthic habitats of Svalbard are diverse with differences in the influence of Atlantic and Arctic water masses. Recorded occurrences and faunal composition of communities at different locations will be evaluated in relation to sampling techniques (benthic sledges, grabs, corers and scuba diving) and the physical environment (water column properties and substrate variables).
The field part of the course focuses extensively on practical exercises, presenting qualitative and quantitative sampling methods. In situ imaging using underwater video/photography will provide supplementary information to the fauna sampled. Lectures and exercises will deal with theoretical and systematic zoology, relevant literature of faunistics/taxonomy of organisms in the Arctic, history of benthic research in Polar seas and zoogeography.
Tentative cruise period: 15. - 29. September
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Period: |
5. September - 14. October 2011 |
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Teaching: |
30 hrs lectures, 30 hrs lab work, exercises/seminars, ca 2 weeks excursion. |
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Evaluation: |
Written 4 hrs exam (1/3 of the grade) and practical part (identification of organisms, counts 1/3). Approved report from field course (counts 1/3). |
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Course responsible: |
Bjørn Gulliksen |
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UNIS contact person: |
Jørgen Berge |
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