NBIC13	Environmental Microbiology, 10 ECTS-points /MIKROORGANISMER I NATUREN/ Advancement level: C
	Aim: The course aims to give the student a profound knowledge about function of microorganisms in different ecosystems. The course focusses on microorganisms existing in the water and soil and their interactions with higher organisms and the importance for the environment. The laboratory course should give knowledge and practice in microbiological technology for studies of microorganisms in the environment. Prerequisites: Basic program of biology with fullfilled "threshold"-demands (passed 50p with a min of 25p theory). Course organization: The theoretical part of the course of lectures, teamwork and independent chosen literature tasks which are to be presented both in writing and orally at a seminar. The practical part includes studytrips, excursions and laboratory projects, in which different microbiological technologies are used to solve the problems. Simultaneous the student will do project work including practical and theoretical parts. Course content: Prokaryota, protista and fungi as well as their physiology and energy transformation. Microorganisms' function and importance in terrstrial, marin and limnic soil ecosystems. The role of microorganisms in the nitrogen, carbon, sulphur and phosphor cycling. Genetic stability in the water. Basic microbiological methods for studies of microorganisms in nature. Microbial adhesion and composition of biofilms. Interactions between microorganisms and higher plants and animals, their effects on nature. Applications of microbial ecology, eg. production of biogas, decomposition of eg. herbicides, bioremediation, composting as well as microorganism in waste water treatment systems. Course literature: Madigan et al. 1997 Brock Biology of Microrganisms. Prentice Hall. Present scientific literature. Laboratory compendium. Possibly completed with another book. Assessment:
TEN2	Written examination 4 credits.
LAB2	Laboratory course and project 6 credits.
	Marks are "approved" or "not approved"

Course language is swedish.