Forest zoologyLaajuus (4 - 6 cr)

Objective

Upon a successful completion of this course, the students understand ecology of forest insects and their population dynamics and ecosystem effects of forest insects and browsing mammals and interactions between different trophic levels. Can apply theoretical ecological framework in a specific plant herbivore systems. Recognition of role of international trade in alien species invasions and the principles of management of invasive species. Ability to identify majority of insects potentially harmful to forest health in North Europe. The course develops the following generic skills: sustainability and responsibility, critical thinking, identification and development of expertise, interaction and communication.

Content

Biology of forest insects. Browsing mammals, their population dynamics and effects in forest ecosystems. Climate change and forest damage. Invasive alien insects and their influence in forest ecosystem. Theories explaining plant-herbivore interactions. Environmental factors and their influence to plant herbivore resistance. Species Identification Examination 3 (insects). 

Materials

Danel, K. et al. (2006) Large herbivore ecology, ecosystem dynamics, and conservation, Chapters 2, 4, 5 ja 6.  Price, P.W. et al. (2011) Insect ecology: behavior, populations and communities. Wainhouse, D. (2005) Ecological methods in forest pest management. 228 p.  Lecture slides are in moodle. Supportive material for self-studying of identification of forest insects is available in moodle.

Further information

The course is taught every two years. Lectures will be either in Finnish or English depending on the participating students. The maximum number of students accepted for exercises is 10. Finnish For. Sci. master students have priority in access followed by UEF Master’s Degree Programme students. The maximum number of participants is 20 (the maximum number of participants is not valid from 1.8.2023).

Execution methods

Multi-modal teaching. Lecturing, participating in e-seminar (in moodle), self-studying of species (study collection, supportive electronic material), practical exercises in field and lab.

Accomplishment methods

Lectures, e-seminar, and species demonstrations (24 h), Literature and Examination, studying species independently, Species Identification Examination 3 (insects). Laboratory exercises (30 h). Course exam via EXAM electronic exam. It is recommended that international non-degree exchange students take only lectures, literature and species identification exams (4 credits).