SOES6051 Reproduction in Marine Invertebrates
Module Overview
This module will cover all aspects of reproduction in marine invertebrates.
Aims and Objectives
Module Aims
• To introduce students to the mechanisms by which marine organisms reproduce. • To show the different larval types and reproductive patterns. • To establish experiments on reproduction. • To be able to conduct and deliver a research project.
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Knowledge of practical lab skills
- Systematics, identification of larvae
- Experimental manipulation
- Analysis and presentation of data
- Write-up of data as Research Article Manuscript for specialist journal (Marine Biology).
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Experimentation and time management
- Multi-tasking
- Observation skills
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Describe all aspects of reproduction in marine invertebrates
- Distinguish between modes of reproduction in different taxa
- Solve reproductive data by experimental design and implementation.
- Identify different larval types in a wide variety of groups.
- Analyse and present experimental data.
Syllabus
The lectures will include reproductive morphology and histology, oogenesis and spermatogenesis, fertilization kinetics, biodiversity in larval forms and detailed analysis of embryonic and larval development in specific taxa of marine invertebrates. Also studied will be larval physiology and larval behaviours. The course has a strong practical element including histological techniques, some boatwork, experimental work in the laboratory, larval analysis from plankton, spawning and embryonic development. The student will also conduct a special project on an aspect of reproduction.
Special Features
Pre-requisites: SOES1011 Introduction To Functional Marine Biology 2016-17, SOES1007 MARINE INVERTEBRATES 2016-17, SOES2011 Marine Vertebrates 2016-17
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Formal Lectures: 10 double lectures and 6 practicals will provide an introduction to the theory underlying all aspects of reproduction. Each lecture systematically covers the main concepts and topics by the use of PowerPoint presentations. The third week is for research projects and presentation of results. Where relevant, lecturers’ own research experience in the appropriate fields is brought into the lecturing sessions. References to the applicable chapter of course text and/or other relevant journal articles are provided as essential reading for each lecture. Practical sessions: exemplify the theory covered during formal lectures allowing you to develop particular skills of relevance to all aspects of reproductive biology and a range of related experimental techniques in the lab. A wide range of support can be provided for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Independent Study | 64 |
| Teaching | 86 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Blackboard. The lecture material is summarised at blackboard.soton.ac.uk. Instructions for accessing this material will be given during the course
Assessment
Summative
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Data Analysis | 80% |
| Oral presentation | 20% |