Instructor: Dr. Patrick Martone (UBC)
Overview: In this course, we will explore the evolution, ecology and biodiversity of seaweeds and discuss ecological adaptations that have allowed them to thrive and diversify over time. We will discuss the deep evolution of photosynthesis and the process of endosymbiosis that gave rise to photosynthetic protists, known as “algae.” We will learn the defining characteristics of the major algal groups, including red, green, and brown macroalgae. We will identify many local species to genus and species, and we will discuss modern molecular approaches to distinguishing cryptic species. We will measure the physiological performance of seaweeds and consider physiological adaptations that permit them to resist environmental stresses, such as temperature and desiccation stress, particularly during low tide. We will quantify biomechanical properties of seaweeds that allow them to resist breaking or dislodgement under crashing waves during high tide. We will discuss seaweed ecology, including resource competition, facilitation, and herbivore defense, and we will consider the ecological impact of algal blooms. The course will emphasize field trips and activities to complement daily lectures, discussions, and presentations.
photo: Liam Coleman
University of Victoria:
MRNE 425 – Ecological Adaptations of Seaweeds
CRN #TBA
University of Calgary:
MRSC 525 – Ecological Adaptations of Seaweeds
You will be registered by your department
University of Alberta:
MA SC 425 – Ecological Adaptations of Seaweeds
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University of British Columbia
MRNE 425 – Ecological Adaptations of Seaweeds
You will be registered by your department
Simon Fraser University
MASC 425-3 – Ecological Adaptations of Seaweeds
You will be registered by your department
“Field trips, definitely stand out. Extremely exciting and fun. The flume lab and kelp-stretching lab were extremely fun, as well as the PAM fluorometry lab. Good experience with lab techniques.”
“Patrick [Martone] is super knowledgeable about algae, a good lecturer, always prepared, taught us lots of cool stuff and was happy to help us. …he was very approachable and fair.”
“Patrick was a phenomenal professor. He constantly inspired us to get ridiculously excited about seaweed! Seaweed! His joy and boundless knowledge made for an excellent three weeks.”