Ichthyology

Objectives of the course (preferably expressed in terms of learning outcomes and competences: Fishes constitute an incredibly diverse group with high levels of plasticity, and it would be impossible to cover everything we know about fishes in a single course.  The purpose of this class is to learn about fish biology. Major objectives are:

1. Enhance your familiarity with taxonomic diversity of fishes
2. Improve your knowledge on the basic physiological, ecological and behavioural adaptations of fishes to life in water,
3. Understand the ecological importance of different life history and reproductive strategies,

Be familiar with issues surrounding marine fish research and fish exploitation.

Course contents: History of ichthyology. Taxonomy – major groups. Morphology and anatomy. Buoyancy and locomotion. Homeostasis (osmoregulation, thermal adaptations, respiration). Feeding, nutritional physiology and growth regulation. Reproductive biology. Behaviour and communication. Exploitation of fishes. Research in progress.