Ecology of Top Predators in Marine Systems

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Ecology of Top Predators in Marine Systems

University
Galway Mayo Institute of technology
Module
3.4.2 Ecosystem Based Fisheries management
Teacher
Semester
Semester 3
Credits
5

This module will provide learners with detailed knowledge of the biology and ecology of top predators in marine systems, in particular: factors affecting their abundance and distribution, role of top predators in marine ecosystems, ecological consequences of top predator declines, role of top predators in monitoring and management of marine ecosystems, interaction between marine megafauna and fisheries.


Course Contents 

  • Factors affecting top predator abundance and distribution.
  • Role of top predators in marine ecosystems.
  • Interactions between marine megafauna and fisheries.
  • Ecological consequences of top predator declines.
  • Top predators as marine sentinels.

 

Final Competencies

1  Discuss the physical, chemical and biological factors that influence the spatial and temporal distribution of marine top predators.

2  Describe the role of top predators in marine systems and the consequences of their removal.

3  Critically evaluate the potential for top predators in monitoring and managing the marine environment.

 

Additional information regarding teaching methods

  • Teaching methods will include a combination of lectures, case studies and fieldwork.
  • Students will benefit from a syllabus informed and delivered by research active staff with GMIT's Marine and Freshwater Research Centre.

 

Further course information can be found here: https://studiekiezer.ugent.be/studiefiche/en/C004332/2021