570003 UE Microbial symbiosis in nature (2022S)

The aim of this workshop is to experience underwater sample collection 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 a written report. The experiments will be performed on marine animals engaging in chemosynthetic symbiosis, i.e. lucinid clams and stilbonematid nematodes. Details of the planned experiments will be given during the preparatory meeting. Methods taught will range from characterising symbioses distribution in the sand to assessing the effect of environmental changes on symbiosis physiology. Snorkelling skills are desirable but not mandatory.
Methods: underwater sampling and photography, measurement of physicochemical parameters, anaerobic chamber set-up and use, light- and epifluorescence microscopy.