Learning objectives
By the end of the course the student i s 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
Introduction to Micropaleontology
Biostratigraphy (principles and methods of biostratigraphic analysis) and relationships with Stratigraphy, Chronostratigraphy and Geochronology
Surficial and deep oceanic circulation 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;
- minor groups: Acritarchs, Conondonts, Calpionellids and Tintinnids
Practicals dealing with the methods of sample preparation for the mcropaleontological anlysis of foraminiferal and nannofossil assemblages (in laboratory) and the principles of taxonomic classification of foraminifera and nannofossils
Full programme
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Bibliography
Material used in the lectures (slides, scientific papers)
Armstrong H.A. & Brasier M.D. 2005. Microfossils. Blackwell. Publishing
Teaching methods
Frontal lectures using multimedial tools and practical lessons in laboratory and at microscope
Assessment methods and criteria
The final evaluation will take into account:
- results of the practical at microscope
- oral exam consisting in 4 questions 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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