ZOOLOGIA E GENETICA AGRARIA

Module ZOOLOGIA

Knowledge and understanding abilities: The student will gain an in-depth knowledge of the morphological and functional aspects of the main animal groups, with particular emphasis on those of agrarian relevance (Annelids, Mollusks, Arthropods, Chordates - Vertebrates), along with an overview of the minor animal groups. They will develop competencies related to embryonic and post-embryonic development, reproductive biology, and interactions between animals and other living organisms (symbiosis, competition, parasitism, predation). This knowledge will be integrated with a global understanding within the framework of evolutionary and ecosystemic theories.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding abilities: The student will be able to apply the acquired morphological and functional knowledge to understand the role of various animal groups in agrarian and natural ecosystems. They will be able to analyze the ecological relationships between animals and other living organisms, also evaluating the evolutionary implications and applying this knowledge in practical contexts, such as sustainable agriculture and wildlife management.

Making judgements: The student will develop the ability to make independent judgments regarding the importance of different animal species in the agrarian context, critically evaluating the ecological interactions between species and the impact of human activity on ecosystems. They will assess the effectiveness of management practices for biodiversity conservation and ecologically sustainable agriculture.

Communication skills: The student will be able to effectively communicate their knowledge of applied zoology in agriculture, both in academic and professional settings, using clear and appropriate scientific language. They will be capable of explaining complex concepts related to ecological interactions and evolutionary processes in a comprehensible way to different audiences, including both experts and laypersons.

Learning skills: The student will develop autonomous learning skills, with the ability to stay updated on new scientific discoveries and theoretical and empirical developments concerning animals of agrarian interest. They will be able to utilize different sources of information, including scientific articles, textbooks, and digital resources, to independently deepen their understanding of topics of interest and apply this knowledge in professional contexts.

The main teaching methods that will be adopted include lectures, practical exercises, and seminars. The lectures will provide a solid theoretical foundation on the fundamental concepts of the course, while the practical exercises will allow students to apply this knowledge through the observation of biological samples and the analysis of ecological data. Seminars, led by external experts, will offer opportunities for in-depth study on specific topics, ensuring comprehensive and integrated learning between theory and practice.

 

Information for students with disabilities and/or learning disorders.

As a guarantee of equal opportunities and in compliance with current regulations, students can ask for a personal interview in order to plan any compensatory and/or dispensatory measures, based on their specific needs and on learning objectives of the discipline. It is also possible to refer to the departmental contacts of CInAP (Center for Active and Participatory Inclusion - Services for Disabilities and/or learning disorders)

 

If conditions require teaching given in a hybrid mode or remotely, necessary changes may be introduced to what previously stated in order to comply with the program.

The basic knowledge considered useful for learning the subject includes a general understanding of animal biology, with particular reference to zoology and the classification of living organisms. A basic knowledge of key biological processes such as reproduction, embryonic development, physiology, and the ecological relationships between animals and their environment is helpful. Familiarity with the concepts of evolution and adaptation, as well as with major ecosystemic theories, will facilitate a better understanding of the course content.

Attending the classes is not mandatory, though strongly advised.

The teaching program covers various fundamental topics related to zoology, with a special focus on animals of agrarian relevance. The course begins with an introduction to animal classification and the basic principles of organism morphology and physiology. The main animal groups—Annelids, Mollusks, Arthropods, and Chordates (Vertebrates)—are examined in detail, with discussions on their morphological-functional characteristics, evolutionary adaptations, and ecological roles. Particular emphasis is placed on animals of agrarian interest and their impact on agricultural ecosystems.

I. De Bernardi ed altri - Zoologia. Parte generale. Ed. Idelson Gnocchi

II-a. De Bernardi ed altri - Zoologia. Parte sistematica. II edizione. Ed. Idelson Gnocchi

II-b. Hickman, Roberts, Keen, Eisenhour, Larson, I'Anson. Diversità animale, 16° edizione. McGraw-Hill

III. Casiraghi M., de Eguileor M., Cerrano C., Puce S. Zoologia. Ed UTET

Oral exam.

The vote follows the following scheme:

 

Negative:

Knowledge and understanding of the topic: Important shortcomings. Significant inaccuracies

Ability to analyze and synthesize: Irrelevant. Frequent generalizations. Inability to synthesize

Use of references: Completely inappropriate

 

18-20:

Knowledge and understanding of the topic: At the threshold level. Obvious imperfections

Analysis and synthesis skills: Just enough skills

Use of references: just appropriate

 

21-23

Knowledge and understanding of the topic: Routine knowledge

Ability to analyze and synthesize: ability of correct analysis and synthesis. Argue logically and consistently

Using references: Use standard references

 

24-26

Knowledge and understanding of the topic: Good knowledge

Analysis and synthesis skills: good analysis and synthesis skills. The arguments are expressed consistently

Using references: Use of standard references

 

27-29

Knowledge and understanding of the topic: Knowledge more than good

Ability to analyze and synthesize: considerable abilities of analysis and synthesis

Use of references: the topic has been explored in depth

 

30-30 e lode

Knowledge and understanding of the topic: Excellent knowledge

Ability to analyze and synthesize: excellent abilities of analysis and synthesis.

Use of references: Important insights.

1 Describe the main morphological and functional characteristics of Arthropods and explain their ecological role in agricultural ecosystems. How do these organisms influence agricultural practices?

2 Analyze the processes of symbiosis and parasitism, providing specific examples for each type of interaction. What are the implications of these ecological relationships on biodiversity in an agricultural environment?

3 Which evolutionary mechanisms contribute to maintaining or increasing biodiversity in natural and agricultural ecosystems?