Functioning of aquatic ecosystems

This course unit should enable students to acquire in-depth knowledge of how aquatic ecosystems function and to identify threats and vulnerabilities in the face of local pressures and climate change.

It will also enable students to 1) learn about the specific characteristics of benthic ecosystems and the ecological roles of their components, 2) acquire in-depth knowledge of how aquatic ecosystems function, 3) acquire knowledge about the impact of chemical and biological contaminants (toxic and pathogenic microalgae), climate change, and anthropization on aquatic ecosystems and their functioning, including socio-economic repercussions. This EU will develop marine environment and marine animal health monitoring networks by addressing mortality issues.

• Acquire in-depth knowledge of how aquatic ecosystems function
• Understanding the specific characteristics of benthic ecosystems and the ecological roles of their components
• Understanding biogeochemistry studies in aquatic ecosystems using carbon as a model
• Acquire knowledge about the threats to marine and freshwater ecosystems (biological invasions, cyanobacterial blooms, and toxic microalgae) in the context of global change, which raises the issue of the vulnerability of these ecosystems.
• Understanding how the food web works, with its planktonic components and allelopathic interactions
• Focus on the tools and objectives of marine environment monitoring, particularly in Mediterranean lagoons, whether anthropized or not.
• Acquire knowledge on the impact of chemical contaminants, climate change, and anthropization on aquatic ecosystems with a focus on microbial communities.
• The sea is a breeding ground for active molecules and other substances of interest, requiring sustainable management of these resources.
• Acquire knowledge about marine environment and marine animal health monitoring networks
• Understanding the causes of mollusk mortality in an anthropized marine environment with a focus on the action of pathogens

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Basic knowledge of biology and ecology

100% Final written exam