93211 - Plants-Environment Interactions and Biomonitoring

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student has advanced and updated knowledge on the morpho-functional mechanisms of acclimatization and adaptation of plants to environmental stressors, on the use of plant organisms as bioindicators and on the main biomonitoring techniques based on plant organisms.

Course contents

The course will be focused on the use of organisms as bioindicators and on biomonitoring techniques. In particular, the methods used to analyze and interpret the response of specific organisms and the whole biodiversity to environmental factors for obtaining information on the health state of the ecosystems will be explained. Different types of bioindicators and ecological indices will be illustrated and the main biomonitoring techniques using lichens, amphibians, fishes, mammals, vascular plants, etc. and the related areas of application will be discussed. Practical activities will be focused on the use of target species as bioindicators and the calculation of biodiversity indices.

Readings/Bibliography

Cazzolla Gatti R. - Biodiversità in teoria e in pratica. 2023 (II edizione). Libreria Universitaria Editore

The teacher will also provide additional study material and resources.

During lectures, bibliographic indications of recent scientific articles related to each topic will be provided.

Teaching methods

The course is mainly based on lectures and, in part, on practical activities. Participation in all lectures and practical activities is strongly recommended given the close linkage between topics.

Assessment methods

There will be one oral exam to assess achievement of the learning objectives.

Teaching tools

Lectures with slide presentations and practical activities aimed at testing biomonitoring activities. All presentations will be made available to students through the VIRTUALE platform.

Office hours

See the website of Roberto Cazzolla Gatti

See the website of Stefania Biondi