Topics in Copepod Feeding Ecology

Course ID: D3401X90

Credits: 3

Objective: Copepods display a remarkable diversity in feeding behaviors, with significant variations across species. To date, more than 14,000 copepod species have been documented globally, and generally, planktonic copepods constitute over 50% of the biomass of zooplankton. Their feeding strategies span herbivory, omnivory, carnivory, parasitism, and scavenging. This course offers a thorough exploration of copepod feeding habits, behaviors, and their ecological significance. It integrates discussions based on recent journal articles and relevant literature, focusing on the latest advancements in research related to copepod feeding ecology. While this course is primarily intended for doctoral students, it will be conducted entirely in English and includes interactive discussions. Zooplankton, including copepods, serve dual roles in aquatic ecosystems: they are both a primary food source for carnivorous organisms and active predators of algae and smaller organisms.

Course Prerequisites: 

Students are expected to have basic courses related to marine biology or marine ecology.

Outline:

1.Introduction to Copepods 

2.In-depth Analysis of Copepod Behavior 

3.Feeding Ecology of Copepods 

4.Adaptation Mechanisms in Copepods 

5.Research Methods for Studying Copepod Behavior and Ecology 

6.Field Sampling Techniques and copepod observations

Teaching Method:  The course will incorporate PowerPoint presentations, slides, videos, hands-on training in copepod behavior observation, and supplementary handouts.

Reference:  Articles published in the past five years on topics related to the course.

Course Schedule (subject to change): Each topic is to be completed within a timeframe of one to three weeks.

Evaluation: 

1.Students are required to submit a mid-term report (including an oral presentation) and/or take an exam, as well as a final report (including an oral presentation) and/or exam. Each report should address the topics discussed in class, recent publications in relevant journals, and reviews of early literature. The mid-term report and/or exam and the final report and/or exam each constitute 45% of the final grade. 

2.Attendance and participation in class discussions constitute 10% of the final grade.