300104 UE Physiology and cell biology of marine symbionts and their hosts (2026S)

The aim of this course is to experience collection of marine symbiotic animals and lab work in the field (Pirano, Slovenia). At the end of the course, students are required to present the results of two experiments in form of oral presentations and of a written report. The experiments will be performed on marine animals engaging in chemosynthetic symbiosis (stilbonematid nematodes). Details of the planned experiments will be given during preparatory meetings in Vienna (see Dates). We will practice methods to determine the effect of environmental changes on symbiosis physiology and cell biology. Snorkelling skills are desirable but not mandatory. Please accept that SCUBA diving is not allowed during the practical course.
Methods: underwater sampling and photography (not mandatory), measurement of physicochemical parameters, anaerobic chamber set-up and use immunostaining, DNA staining, light- and epifluorescence microscopy.