Expected learning outcomes related to the topics: 1) knowledge of the main theories on community ecology, 2) experience with mathematical models related to fluctuation dynamics to define species coexistence, 3) knowledge of community ecology and its evolutionary implications, 4) knowledge of evolutionary structure within and among populations and communities, 5) knowledge of quantitative and molecular ecology analyses. The course provides: • ability to use mathematical and statistical models to analyze population and community processes. Learn to interpret the results and formulate new hypotheses, • statistical analyses skills to be summarized in a technical report.
Course Prerequisites
it is recommended to have previously attended Ecology course. However, there is no mandatory.
Teaching Methods
12 lectures (24 hours) and 48 lab hours (40 hours computer lab and 8 hours ecology lab). Participation in the lab is strongly suggested.
Assessment Methods
The exam will be oral for a duration of 20 minutes and includes: • the assessment of knowledge on the dynamics and mechanisms that regulate communities (50%), • the assessment of knowledge on quantitative and molecular ecology analyses (20%). At the end of the lab, the presentation of a technical report including the results of the statistical analyses of ecological data will be required (30%).
Contents
The course deals with the following topics: 1) community ecology: analysis of the structural and functional relationships that define communities, 2) analysis of the complexity within interspecific and intraspecific relationships, 3) analysis of evolutionary relationships, 4) quantitative and molecular ecology analyses. In addition, the quantitative ecology lab consists in ecological data analyses and in writing of technical report.
Course Language
Italian
More information
The teachers are available for interview with students by appointment via e-mail: serena.zaccara@uninsubria.it - For the lab: silvia.quadroni@uninsubria.it
