94512 - Sampling Methods and Normal Histology of Aquatic Species of Commercial Interest

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student acquires the basis for a correct methodological approach applicable to different sampling phases and is able to recognize the macro-microscopic features of organs and tissues and the main biometric parameters of aquatic animals of commercial interest. In particular, he is able to plan, at the fish farm, the collection of anatomical and histological samples, and is able to prepare and critically observe histological preparations. In addition, the student acquires the ability to know the biometric parameters within the supply chain specifications. It has the basis for processing data obtained during zootechnical experiments.

Course contents

This course entitled "SAMPLING METHODS AND NORMAL HISTOLOGY OF AQUATIC SPECIES OF COMMERCIAL INTEREST" is part of the Integrated course in "MACRO-MICROSCOPIC AND BIOMETRIC EVALUATIONS APPLICABLE IN FARMING AND IN SUPPLY CHAIN SPECIFICATIONS".

The course is aimed at understanding the organization and a correct methodological approach to the various sampling phases of organs and tissues and the main biometric parameters, within the specifications of the supply chain, of aquatic animals of commercial interest.

Module 1

Sampling Methods and Normal Histology of Aquatic Species of Commercial Interest. Recognition of the species, dissection and anatomical recognition of the main organs and tissues, techniques of manipulation and sampling of tissues, processing and preservation of histological samples, preparation of histological and cytological preparation. Preparation and staining of a blood and hemolymph smear. The standard cytological method for imprinting (or imprint cytology). Normal histology of bone and cartilaginous fish, molluscs, crustaceans and echinoderms (hedgehog di mare), morphometric evaluations and application of a histological scoring system.

Readings/Bibliography

Teaching material consists of the suggested textbooks (see below) and of the didactic material put on the specific course website (http://campus.cib.unibo.it [http://campus.cib.unibo.it/] ) or website of the teacher responsible for the course: http://www.unibo.it/sitoweb/m.mazzoni/didattica.

In addition, the didactic material is available at the Secretariat of the structure.

The suggested textbooks are:

- GENTEN F., TERWINGHE E., DANGUY A. Atlas of fish histology. Ed. Science Publisher, New Hampshire, USA. 2009. ISBN 978-57808-544-6.

- TAKASHIMA F., HIBIYA T. An atlas of fish histology normal and pathological features (2nd Edition), Published by Kodansha LTD, Tokio, Japan and Gustav Fisher Verlag, Stutgard, Germany,1995.

- G.K. OSTRANDER, The laboratory fish, Academic Press, 2000.

Teaching methods

Teaching consists of 3 CFUs for a total of 21 hours. Of these, 7 hours are dedicated to frontal lessons and 14 hours to practical exercises. Practical exercises are carried out partly using optical microscopes and respective histological preparations, dissection of fresh material, obtained both from authorized dealers and directly from experimental or production farms.

In consideration of the types of activities and teaching methods adopted, in particular the practical exercises carried out in the laboratory, attendance of this training activity requires all students to complete modules 1 and 2 in e-learning mode and to participate in module 3 of specific training on safety and health in the workplace. Indications on the dates and methods of attendance of module 3 can be found in the appropriate section of the "course website.”

Assessment methods

Verification of learning is done through an oral test. The oral exam aims to test knowledge acquisition under the program of the course. At each student they will be submitted at least three questions for each modul (module I and module II) inherent to the program. The test is considered positive with a score of at least 18/30. In the case of maximum marks (30/30), honors can be attributed. The final grade is the arithmetic mean of the marks obtained in the two didactic modules and is expressed in thirtieths. 

Students have the right to refuse the registration of the positive grade proposed once (University Teaching Regulations ART.16, paragraph 5) by informing the course examiner via email within 5 working days.

Students with learning disorders and/or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

With regard to the learning assessment, the use of AI is prohibited. Any use of AI constitutes a breach of academic integrity

The recording teacher is Prof. Mazzoni Maurizio

Teaching tools

PowerPoint presentation projected on the appropriate screen.

Microscope and respective histological preparations.

Fresh material from special company distributor of seafood products.

Links to further information

https://corsi.unibo.it/laurea/acquacoltura

https://www.unibo.it/sitoweb/m.mazzoni (Didactic section)

Office hours

See the website of Maurizio Mazzoni