35606 - Laboratory of Paleoecology

Learning outcomes

To provide paleoecological field skills as well as a few specilized research methods to resolve paleoenvironmental dynamics recorded in Quaternary marine successions of the Mediterranean Basin.

At the end of the course the student gain a full practice of how field-based science may be conducted in marine paleoecology.

Course contents

Theory: Marine paleoecology; zonation of benthic marine environments; sampling methodologies and taphonomy of macrobenthic fossil intervals. Describing and interpreting ecological gradients in the sedimentary record. Relative sea-level changes and turnover of mollusk associations. Bivariate and multivariate analyses in paleoecology (case studies).

Laboratory: Systematic and ecology of Mediterranean key-taxa (mainly mollusks) for paleoenvironmental reconstruction. Computer applications of data analysis techniques.

Field activity (3 days): Field-based studies seek to reconstruct environmental dynamics based on macrobenthic remains in the Quaternary successions of Italy.

Readings/Bibliography

Lecture notes and bibliographic material will be provided during the course.

Teaching methods

Lectures; laboratory exercises and field excursions.

Assessment methods

The exam is based upon a multiple-choice/open answer written test and a practical test.

The practical test consists in the description and identification of one macrobenthic invertebrate.

Teaching tools

Video projector; PC; blackboard; microscope; fossil collection; demonstration of the use of instruments (in the lab and on the field).

Office hours

See the website of Daniele Scarponi