898942 VO+SE Introductory Marine Biology (2003W)

The first part of his 4 hour lecture course introduces students to the origin and morphology of marine basins, the physical and chemical properties of sea water, the driving forces of heat transfer and water movement, currents, convections, waves and tides, sediment properties and distribution, light and primary productivity. In the second part the evolution and representation of marine life is presented and the major marine ecosystems discussed, with special emphasis of representative organisms and their adaptations and key processes characterizing the respective system. Both the pelagic and the benthic system are treated, from the coast to the deep ocean. The biogeochemical cycles of C, N, P and S conclude this part. In the third part treats the interactions of man with the sea: exploring, utilizing and endangering of marine ecosystems and organisms.