B028448 - FOREST/ENVIRONMENTAL LABORATORY

Italian

Starting from the basic concepts of forest ecology and plant physiology, the course addresses ecological issues, such as the role of forests in the water cycle by studying the water relations in the soil-tree-atmosphere and in the forest systems.

Textbooks:
Smith TM, Smith RL. (2012) Elements of ecology (7th edition) Pearson BC.

Knowledge acquired: Principles of ecology and functionality of forest ecosystems in relation to water availability.

Competence acquired (at the end of the course): Comprehension of base mechanisms of functionality of forest ecosystems.

Skills acquired: synthesis and evaluation of forest ecology questions.

Frequency of lectures, excursions and labs, although non compulsory, is strongly recommended: 2/3 of practical activities should be attended.

CFU: 3
Lectures (% total): 30%
Laboratory-field/practice (% total): 70%

* e-mail:
claudia.cocozza@unifi.it
daniele.penna@unifi.it

* timetable and information, after lessons or by appointment

* e-learning: Moodle platform for lecture slide sharing, and other teaching aids.

Exam and evaluation criteria: interview. Student capacity will be evaluated on her/his capacity to approach ecological themes, use appropriate scientific terms, and discuss different aspects, viewpoints and relevant topics.

A. Introduction to water relations in trees.
B. Introduction to forest hydrology, with particular focus on the role of forest trees in the hydrological cycle.
C. Analysis of complex systems. Field trip in an experimental area. Data collection.

D. Data analysis. Synthesis and elaboration of acquired concepts, theories and applications.