BIOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT OF MARINE ENVIRONMENTS

The course provides in-depth knowledge of marine ecosystem dynamics and monitoring systems, as well as the management of the marine environment in its various contexts—from port areas to protected zones—and regarding biodiversity, from alien species to endangered ones, focusing on the most advanced management methodologies for the resources of these environments.

Upon completion of the course, the student will achieve the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge and understanding – The student will acquire in-depth theoretical and methodological knowledge regarding the functional dynamics of marine ecosystems, environmental monitoring systems and networks, the structure and protection of marine biodiversity (with particular attention to endangered and invasive alien species), and advanced strategies for the sustainable management of marine and coastal environments, with a specific focus on climate change mitigation, high anthropogenic impact contexts (port areas), and highly protected areas (Marine Protected Areas).

Applying knowledge and understanding – The student will be able to apply the principles and methodologies of marine biology to assess ecosystem health, plan and design monitoring programs, and propose concrete management solutions and strategies aimed at resource conservation, counteracting the introduction of alien species, and the sustainable enhancement of marine resources.

Furthermore, the student will acquire:

• Making judgements: by developing the ability to critically analyze environmental and biological data, identifying key issues and threats to marine biodiversity. The student will be able to make autonomous assessments to identify the most appropriate management and mitigation actions in various operational and regulatory contexts.

• Communication skills: by developing the capacity to present and communicate concepts, data, and marine environment management plans clearly and rigorously, using appropriate technical and scientific language to both specialist (scientific community, management bodies) and non-specialist audiences.

• Learning skills: through a critical and independent study method that will enable continuous updating on relevant scientific literature, evolving environmental regulations, and new technologies and operational approaches in marine environment management and conservation.

The course includes lectures delivered through multimedia presentations, as well as practical exercises and laboratory and field activities.

Attendance is mandatory. To be admitted to the final exam, students must attend at least 60% of the scheduled course hours, in accordance with the Degree Course Teaching Regulations.

For working students, student-athletes, and students in situations of hardship (RDA, Art. 30), whose status is duly certified, attendance requirements may be reduced by a maximum of 20%.

Dynamics of natural marine environments. Priority habitats. Alterations and pollution: spillage of toxic substances, eutrophication; sedimentary alteration; withdrawal of fishery resources; marine litter and emerging pollutants; climate changes; alien species. Fishery biology; Environmental monitoring: Posidonia, Carlit; coralligenous; Coastal strip management: integrated management, MPA, marine strategy, environmental accounting.

Della Croce, Cattaneo Vietti, Danovaro. Ecologia e protezione dell'ambiente marino costiero

in addition to the reference text, any didactic material will be provided by the teacher

Student assessment is conducted through an oral exam and the presentation of a case study. The exam aims to verify the level of knowledge and understanding achieved by the student regarding the course content, as well as their independent judgment, communication skills, and ability to autonomously elaborate scientific sources. In particular, the final grade will reward the completeness of theoretical knowledge, methodological rigor in applied analysis, clarity of expression, and the ability to establish interdisciplinary connections. To achieve top marks (30/30 cum laude), the student must demonstrate an excellent command of all topics, strong critical autonomy, and mastery of specialized scientific language. A passing grade (18/30) will be awarded for a basic yet correct understanding of the core concepts of the discipline and an essential, though appropriate, use of scientific terminology. If the student displays severe gaps in key concepts, an inability to navigate the course content, and inadequate specialized language, the evaluation will be insufficient.

Impact of alien species

Marine strategy

Eco-accounting and emergetics