Learning outcomes of the course unit
The Ichthyology course has been designed to provide students with the most up-to-date scientific information in the fields of fish systematics, fish species biology and acquaculture.
Prerequisites
Fundamentals in the field of general biology, ecology and zoology
Course contents summary
TAXONOMIC ORGANISATION OF THE FISH SUPERCLASS
- Chondrichthyes (cartilaginous fish). Osteichthyes (bony fish): Chondrostei and teleostei
- Zoogeography of fish in inland Italian waters
MAIN MORPHO-FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF BONY FISH
- Topographic and functional anatomy of primary organs and apparatus in Osteichthyes
- Morpho-structural adaptation for swimming and floating
- Branchial respiration and cardio-circulatory system
- Digestive apparatus
- Neuro-endocrine system
- Reproductive apparatus. Fecundation. Embryological and larval development
ECOLOGY OF FISH SPECIES
- Ichthyic zonation of inland waters
- Biological adaptations fundamental to aquatic life
- Diadromous species
- Biodiversity and fishing
- Restocking
- Aquacultural practices of species of commercial interest
- Problems of allochthonous species
- Overview of ichthyopathology
FIELD TRIPS AND PRACTICAL EXERCISES
- Use of electro-fishing
- Capturing and marking fish species
- Artificial fecundation
- Downstream hatcheries
- Application of biochemical genetic and molecular techniques
Recommended readings
Gandolfi G., Zerunian S., Torricelli P., Marconato A. (1991). I pesci delle acque interne italiane. Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato
Nonnis Marzano F., Piccinini A., Pascale M. (2003). Atlante dell'ittiofauna della provincia di Parma. Alchemy Project Group Ed.
