300097 UE Ecosystem and Biogeochemistry Laboratory - Techniques in Aquatic Ecology (2024S)

This practical course aims to teach the students common techniques in aquatic ecology. The topics range from water chemistry, dissolved gases, viruses and bacteria, planktonic to macrozoobenthic organisms.
Most days begin with a theoretical introduction. What techniques do we know in aquatic ecology, why is a particular technique used, what can it tell us, and what are the possibilities and limitations. The morning lecture is followed by practical work in the field or in the laboratory (limnology and bio-oceanography). Intermediate results are reported every second day. A summarizing reporting at the last day with short presentations will complete the course. The course consists of 10 working days (2 weeks).
Day 1 and 2 is dedicated to sampling techniques, and after a short morning lecture, we will go to the field and collect samples from running water and groundwater. Day 3 and 4 are dedicated to the analyses of water chemistry (nutrients, organic matter, ...). Days 5 to 7 will deal with the determination of the abundance and biomass of aquatic organisms, from viruses to bacteria, from zooplankton to phytoplankton. On days 8 and 9, we will tackle the activity and ecophysiology of selected groups of organisms (primary production, respiration). Day 10 will be dedicated to reviewing what has been achieved. Students will have time for final data analysis and compilation. The overall outcome of the course will be highlighted by students presentations.