Arctic Ecosystems and Adaptation of Species to Arctic Environment (5op)

Arviointiasteikko

H-5

Tavoitteet

The course aims to give an overview of the main characteristics of the Arctic ecosystems and their global relevance.

After completion of the course, the student is be able to
- identify the main features and functions of circumpolar tundra, boreal forest and marine ecosystems
- recognize interactions and relationships between the Arctic ecosystems and other parts of the globe
- examine the evolution and adaptation mechanisms of plants and animals in the Arctic environment
- describe changing properties of snow in the Arctic due to changing climate.

Toteutustavat

Lectures (30 h), independent work (100 h).

Suoritustavat

Active participation in the lectures, successful completion of a written essay or an exam.

Sisältö

The course contains the following themes:
- The evolution and distribution of tundra and boreal forest ecosystems, emphasizing vegetation, plant-animal interactions and natural and anthropogenic disturbance patterns and processes
- Processes and global interactions that affect marine productivity and biodiversity, interactions between marine and terrestrial ecosystems and threats to Arctic marine life
- Morphological, physiological and behavioural adaptations of plants and/or animals to the northern environment with basic information on evolution, natural selection and challenges of climate change
- Characteristics and evolution of seasonal snow cover.

Arviointikriteerit, tyydyttävä (1)

Fail: Performance is highly deficient or erroneous. The work may be based on serious misunderstandings.

Sufficient and satisfactory (1-2): Performance is lacking in scope, superficial, or corresponds poorly to the assignment. The author merely lists things out of context or addresses them one-sidedly. The work may contain errors or obscurities.

Arviointikriteerit, hyvä (3)

Good and very good (3-4): Performance corresponds to the assignment, manifesting comprehension and a skill to analyse and justify. The author has addressed the issue comprehensively. The work may contain some deficiencies.

Arviointikriteerit, kiitettävä (5)

Excellent (5): Performance delineates an extensive whole and the author can apply knowledge in a multifaceted way or place it in various contexts. The work manifests independency and insight, and it is a flawless entity that involves justified thinking or critical contemplation. The work is well written and implemented.

Esitietovaatimukset

Course ASPB1101 Introduction to the Arctic (5 ECTS) has to be passed before attending this course.