Learning objectives
The course aims to provide knowledge about the potential application of invertebrates throughout the entire bioremediation process (from assessing contaminated sites using bioindicators/indices, to actual bioremediation, and finally to ecotoxicological monitoring).
Students will gain insights into the environmental fate of key soil contaminants and their effects on biological systems of varying complexity. They will learn about different approaches to bioindication and toxicity measurement in laboratory tests, as well as the role of invertebrates in bioremediation processes.
Particular emphasis will be placed on developing independent judgment in selecting and using bioindicators and biomonitoring techniques. Knowledge acquisition on the topics covered during the course will be assessed, along with the ability to present and discuss case studies drawn from the literature.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of inorganic and organic chemistry, ecology, animal biology, and mineralogy. Ability to conduct research in databases. Proficiency in using PowerPoint and Word.
Course unit content
Introduction to Bioindication and Ecotoxicology Contaminants in Soil: Main Types, Exposure Pathways, Bioavailability Toxicity Testing: Criteria and Conditions in Field and Laboratory The Different Levels of Biological Organization in Assessing the Effects of Contaminants Soil Invertebrates: Functionality, Main Target Groups, and Endpoints Standardized Ecological Tests Biological Indices Principles of Bioremediation Application of Soil Fauna in Bioremediation – Earthworms Examples and Case Studies
Full programme
Introductory Concepts of Bioindication: Environmental quality indicators; indicator species for environmental quality/pollution, bioaccumulators and tests; biological indices.
Introductory Concepts of Ecotoxicology: Definitions and limitations, morphological and functional types of organisms used.
Soil Complexity and Contaminant Distribution: Exposure pathways; characteristics of soil; morphological and ecological traits of soil organisms.
Dose-Effect Relationships, Bioaccumulation, Bioavailability: Target groups, endpoints, levels of biological organization.
Main Soil Contaminants: Types (organic and inorganic); sources of contamination; impacts on micro- and mesofauna; methods for measuring impact.
Criteria and Conditions for Toxicity Assessment: Laboratory and field evaluation.
Invertebrates in Ecotoxicological Testing and Bioindication: Criteria for species selection; exposure pathways; most commonly used species in ecotoxicological tests; bioindicator species; case studies.
Biological Indices Based on: Nematodes, arthropods (single taxon or multiple taxa), earthworms.
Introduction to Soil Bioremediation: Techniques and types; the role of invertebrates.
Earthworms in Bioremediation: Effects of contaminants on earthworms; soil remediation using earthworms – vermiremediation; mechanisms and processes involved in vermiremediation; advantages/disadvantages and future perspectives.
Bibliography
PowerPoint presentations of the lectures will be provided, along with a selection of articles and reviews for further exploration of some topics discussed.
Teaching methods
The course will include lectures by the instructor and seminars led by experts on specific topics. Students will present individually or in small groups on case studies selected from the literature, followed by discussions in class. There will also be practical laboratory activities.
Assessment methods and criteria
Assessment will consist of a written test with closed-ended questions (approximately 1 hour) and an oral presentation by the student using PowerPoint, focusing on an in-depth concept related to the course (15 minutes).
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
6 - Clean Water and Sanitation
12 - Responsible Consumption and Production
15 - Life on Land
