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The course explores all aspects of the physical environment of the deep sea including vents and considers the fauna of the deep sea in this framework.

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Al final de la unidad el estudiante debería ser capaz de:



1. familiarIzarse con el conocimiento del medio ambiente más grande de la Tierra.

Irakasgai-zerrenda

SOES6008



- Aims

To give a detailed knowledge of the oceanography of the deep sea, the largest single ecosystem on Earth.

To introduce students to a variety of aspects of the physical and chemical environment.

To examine the distributions of fauna in different types of deep sea environments.



- Syllabus

The deep-sea occupies at least 50% of the surface of the globe. The original concept was that the deep sea was a tranquil environment with little variation in its dominant physico-chemical and biological variables. In the last 20 years this paradigm has been challenged and we now know that the deep sea can be a highly dynamic environment in which there are benthic storms and seasonal processes. There is also high species diversity. The original concept was that the system was heterotrophic but with the discovery of hydrothermal vents and cold seeps we have environments in which the basis of life is chemical energy rather than sunlight.



- Teaching and learning methods

The course will be delivered using lectures and a series of special seminars.



- Formal lectures: Each lecture systematically covers the main concepts and topics by the use of PowerPoint presentations. Most lectures are complemented by extensively illustrated handout materials. 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.



- Seminar Series: A series of seminars will be delivered by guest speakers covering topics at the forefront of deep sea ecology.



- Tutorial support: All students are encouraged to discuss any aspect of the course with the relevant member of the lecturing staff.

A wide range of support can be provided for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs.



- Resources and reading list

The lecture material is summarised at blackboard.soton.ac.uk. Instructions for accessing this material will be given during the course.