Learning objectives
By the end of the course the student is expected to know and understand the principles of the classical Micropaleontology and its more recent applications within Earth Sciences. Specifically, the student should be able to: 1) know and understand the general features of the microfossil groups; 2) know and understand the applications of the microfossil groups within the stratigraphic, paleoenvironmental and paleoclimatic reconstructions of sedimentary successions; 3) apply the knowledge of the basic principles of taxonomic classification through microscope observation.
Prerequisites
Knowledge of Paleontology
Course unit content
Concepts of Micropaleontology, main microfossil groups and their applications in Geosciences
Full programme
Introduction to Micropaleontology
Principles and methods of biostratigraphic analysis using microfossils
Oceanic circulation, marine biogeochemical cycles and marine sediments
General features and applications of the following groups of microfossils:
- calcareous microfossils: Nannofossils, Foraminifera and Ostracods;
- siliceous microfossils: Diatoms, Silicoflagellates, Radiolaria;
- organic wall microfossils: Dinoflagellates;
- other groups: Acritarchs, Conondonts, Calpionellids and Tintinnids
Practicals dealing with analysis of stratigraphic sections, sampling methods, biostratigraphic interpretations, methods of sample preparation
for the micropaleontological analysis of foraminiferal and nannofossil assemblages (in laboratory) and principles of taxonomic classification of
foraminifera (microscope).
Bibliography
Material used in the lectures (slides, scientific papers)
Armstrong H.A. & Brasier M.D. 2005. Microfossils. Blackwell. Publishing
Pinet P.R., 2006. Invitation to Oceanography. Jones & Bartlett.
Teaching methods
Frontal lectures using multimedial tools in classroom and practical lessons in laboratory and at microscope.
The slides of the lessons will be uploaded weekly on the Elly platform. Online registration at the course is required to download the slides.
The slides are a fundamental part of the study material. For students not attending, it is important to check the available study materials
and guidelines provided by the teachers through Elly.
Assessment methods and criteria
The assssment method consists of an oral exam to verify the knowledge and understanding, the capability of applying knowledge and understanding regarding the topics treated during the course and the communication skills.
Other information
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