NNMK13004U Algal and Microbial Diversity

Volume 2013/2014
Education
MSc in Biology
Content
The aim of the course is to provide the students with introduction to and overview of the ”tree of life”, exploring the origin, biodiversity and evolution of eukaryote life and the ecological importance of the different groups, focusing on the more basal parts in the tree, the protists. The groups comprising microalgae, with be dealt with in great detail to give a deeper insight into the diversity, morphology and biology of the different groups of microalgae and their differences and similarities in an evolutionary context. Focus will be put on themes like cell organization, movements, phylogeny, species delineation, food-uptake, life histories and endosymbiosis.
Learning Outcome

Knowledge

  • Knowledge of the tree of life, with particular emphasis on the protists and their evolutionary relationships
  • Present the endosymbiosis-theory
  • Knowledge of morphology and biology of the major microalgal groups

Skills

  • Describe and compare morphology and biology of major algal group
  • Make use of characters to classify organisms to major protest groups
  • Critically read and evaluate original literature on protest taxonomy and systematics

Competences

  • Compare morphology and biology of major algal groups
  • Select and discuss aspects of protist biology
  • Formulate and discuss general principles among the algal groups with regard to life cycles, cell organisation, movement, food uptake etc.
Literature

The main textbooks will be the most recent edition of Graham, Graham & Wilcox “Algae” and “Protistology” by Hausmann, Hülsmann & Radek supplemented by resources provided by the teachers within the e-learning platform.

The course will be provided within an e-learning platform, and is based on lectures, student presentations, discussions, tests, exercises and written projects. The teaching requires contact between students and the teachers responsible for the specific contributions.
The course is given within NABIS – Nordic Academy of Biodiversity and Systematics, Masters Programme. The course will only be held with a minimum of 10 students.
  • Category
  • Hours
  • E-Learning
  • 48
  • Preparation
  • 84
  • Project work
  • 74
  • Total
  • 206
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Written assignment
Written assignment and exercises. Five exercises will be given during the course, each account for 10% of the final evaluation. A written project during the last three weeks of the course account for 50%.
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
No external censorship
Criteria for exam assesment
See knowledge skills and competences