Workshop: “Looking for applications and constrains in the use of diatoms as ecological tools”

- Provide the basic definitions on the taxonomic and ecological role of diatoms in watercourses.

- Train the students in the diatom identification and counting

- Provide the appropriate tools to properly interpret the data – producing an ecological interpretation

- Define the suitability of diatom for the evaluation of geomorphological, nutrient, and chemical disturbances.

The course will include theoretical lessons and practical exercises in the field and in the lab with microscopes.

1) Methodology

2) Taxonomy (= Identification)

3) Application – how to couple with ecotoxicology

schedule:

- 1st day- Field work: implementing the accurate collection and data measurement in the field. Sample digestion and mounting.

- 2nd day- morning- Introduction to diatom taxonomy and ecology; afternoon: - Diatom identification

- 3rd day- Diatom identification & counting

- 4th day- Data interpretation- Discussion of the data

- 5th day- Workshop