27959 - Malacology

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student has in-depth knowledge of morphology, ecology, taxonomy, evolution and phylogeny of Phylum Mollusca, with particular regard to new acquisitions deriving from modern molecular analyzes. In particular, the student is able to: - recognize the main families of molluscs; - use the phylum for ecological-environmental analyzes.

Course contents

Generalities on the Phylum Mollusca
Structure, morphology characteristics of the shell of the molluscs in the different classes.
Class Monoplacophora: Generalities and systematic.
Class Polyplacophora: Generalities and systematic.
Class Bivalvia: Generalities and systematic.
Main orders of Bivalvia and analysis of the most important families.
Class Gastropoda: Generalities and systematic.
Main orders of Gastropoda and analysis of the most important families.
Class Scaphopoda: Generalities and systematic.
Class Cephalopoda: Generalities and systematic
Main orders of Cephalopoda and analysis of the most important families.

Examples of molecular phylogenetic analyzes discussed in the class.

Teaching methods

Lectures, integrated by laboratory activity on study materials.

Assessment methods

Oral exam with recognition test on mollusk materials.

Teaching tools

Power point presentation, use of zoological samples.

Office hours

See the website of Marco Passamonti