88267 - ANIMAL ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE

Conoscenze e abilità da conseguire

At the end of the course students will demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the physiological mechanisms (at the molecular, cellular and systemic levels) through which animals - including humans - can adapt to changes in temperature, pH, osmolarity, water scarcity, etc. in the surrounding environment. On the other hand, students will know the limits of adaptation, thus being able to evaluate the risks related to climate changes. Students will have the ability to integrate knowledge and formulate hypothesis, and clearly communicate their achievements.

Contenuti

Temperature: biochemical and physiological effects on animals; regulation of thermal biology; molecular basis of thermal adaptation.

Ocean Acidification: biochemical and physiological effects of pH variations on animals; molecular basis of pH adaptation

Drought and salinity: animal water balance and osmoregulation; adaptation in terrestrial and aquatic environments; molecular basis of osmotic adaptation.

Physiological and molecular limits of adaptation; climate change adverse effects on animal and human health.

Testi/Bibliografia

Scientific papers and reviews.
Textbook: Environmental Physiology of Animals. Ed Blackwell. Willmer, Stone and Johnston

Metodi didattici

Frontal lessons

Modalità di verifica e valutazione dell'apprendimento

The final examination wants to evaluate that students met the teaching objectives: know the principles of homeostasis and the physiological mechanisms through which animals adapt to climate changes and the strategies for coping with environmental changes. The exam (written) deals with specific questions on different topics: students will be asked to answer in a pertinent and synthetic manner, eventually using sketches and drawings.

Strumenti a supporto della didattica

Power point slides; scientific papers and reviews

Orario di ricevimento

Consulta il sito web di Silvia Franzellitti