66447 - Paleobiogeography

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student will have knowledge on the origin and distribution of biotic provinces, the paleogeographic reconstructions based on biogeography from the Precambrian to the Neogene period, and the relationships between paleogeography and the distribution patterns of living beings. Finally, the student will be able to evaluate the impact of the geographic changes on the biotic history.

Course contents

Historical and ecological biogeography: the reasons for a distinction. How the distribution of life forms changes in relation to major geological events. The contributions provided by the distribution of certain living groups to paleogeographic reconstructions. Major changes and interactions through the Precambrian, Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic related to the geological evolution, major patterns of biodiversity, radiation and extinction trends with geographic components, the role of competition.

Readings/Bibliography

Copies of slides (pdf) will be gradually released during the course, they also contain lots of suggestions for further readings on the covered topics.

Teaching methods

Classroom and museum lessons. A 4-day field excursion is scheduled for mid-June 2022 for those attending the course. All details will be given at the beginning and during the course.

Assessment methods

Evaluation will be through the presentation of a thematic poster and an oral exam. The poster aims to evaluate the student's ability to analyze and present specific cases covered in the course. The oral exam includes questions on topics covered in the course and has the purpose of evaluating the ability to connect the different aspects of this historical science in an evolutionary view.

Teaching tools

Traditional lessons and lessons in the Capellini Museum (paleontology) of the University of Bologna. Field excursions.

Office hours

See the website of Roberto Barbieri