APPLIED AQUATIC ECOLOGY FOR SUSTAINABILITY

Upon successful completion of this course unit, the students:

• 1. Have acquired an overview on concepts in ecology as applied on aquatic ecosystems.
• 2. Have a first insight in the structure and functioning of freshwater systems such as lakes, rivers and estuaries, and the biota inhabiting these systems.
• 3. can use this information to assess the consequences of major threats to aquatic systems, such as eutrophication, pollution, water abstraction, the introduction of exotic species and climate change.
• 4. Can also use this information to assess the consequences of engineering activities, and have a feeling for the importance of biodiversity and the special status of ancient lake ecosystems.
• 4. Have the capacity to appreciate the role of aquatic ecosystems and their threats in developing countries as well as in highly industrialized context.
• 5. Can apply the acquired knowledge in ecology in general and in aquatic systems in particular to water quality assessment, water quality management and rehabilitation of natural aquatic environments, interpreting reports on environmental degradation, etc.
• 6. Can relate quality of aquatic habitats to human development.