300496 VO Introductory Marine Biology (2007W)

This course introduces the largest ecosystem on earth. The biology of the major components - from shores to the deep sea and the pelagic subsystem - is treated, with emphasis on the highly characteristic aquatic faunas and floras of the various biotopes. Underlying principles and processes as well as key ecological concepts that underlie this great organismic diversity are highlighted. Finally, current threats and future perspectives are discussed