Marine zooplankton is a term summarizing an incredibly high diversity of species from 18 animal phyla, partly spending their entire lifetime in the pelagic environment (holoplankton) or having a pelagic (usually larval) life stage (meroplankton).
This course will provide an overview over zooplankton diversity and systematics, with special focus on crustacean plankton (Copepoda, Malacostraca, Cladocera), jellyplankton (Ctenophora, diverse cnidarian medusae, salps), and marine planktonic larvae.
Lectures will present and discuss phylogenetic relationships and biology of selected zooplankton organisms, as well as ecological aspects (role of zooplankton in marine pelagic foodchains, reaction of zooplankton organisms to envionmental change, ect.).
The practical part will focus on sampling techniques, sample handling, preparation techniques, and species identification. Our experienced teachers will discuss common problems you might come across when studying zooplankton and they will suggest solutions.
You can find more information about the course here. Register by filling this form and send it to Malin Strand (Malin.Strand@slu.se).
Registration deadline March 15, 2013.