Search result: Catalogue data in Spring Semester 2020
Environmental Sciences Bachelor  | ||||||
 Bachelor Studies (Programme Regulations 2011) | ||||||
| Natural Science and Technical Electives | ||||||
| Natural Science Modules | ||||||
| Biomedicine | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 701-0614-00L | Allergies and Environment | W | 1 credit | 1V | P. Schmid-Grendelmeier | |
| Abstract | Allergic diseases are common and of increasing importance. In this course symptoms and management of allergies such as hay fever, asthma, eczema or food allergy are presesented. The importnat interactions between environmental factors such as air quality, climate, nutrition and form and frequency of allergic diseases will be discussed. | |||||
| Learning objective | Knowledge of the basics of allergic diseases in humans, especially the so-called atopic diseases. Knowledge of the environmental allergens and the possible mechanisms responsible for the increase in allergic reactions. Knowledge of the interactions between individual genetic predisposition, environmental allergens and other environmental factors such as air pollutants. | |||||
| Content | Basic types of allergic diseases. Concept of atopy and intolerances. Pathophysiology of IgE-mediated reactions including mechanisms of IgE regulation. Epidemiological data regarding the increase of allergies as environmental diseases No. 1 and reasons for this increase. Discussion of the most important inhalant and nutritional allergens such as pollen, house dust mites, fungal spores, food and food additives. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Scripts, leaflets and lecture notes are handed in. | |||||
| Literature | Scripts, leaflets and lecture notes are handed in. Suggested reading: Axel Trautmann und Jörg Kleine-Tebbe: Allergie-Diagnose/Allergie-Therapie Thieme-Verlag. 2 Auflage (2013) ISBN 978-3-13-142181-4 Leaflets: www.ck-care.ch https://www.ck-care.ch/en/information-sheets Edcuatioal short videos: https://www.ck-care.ch/online-campus Link | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Basic knowledge in immunology (T /B cells, immunoglobulins) Interest in clinical symptoms and correlation with Environment and Immune system Possibilty of Master thesis in translational medecine | |||||
| 227-0398-10L | Physiology and Anatomy for Biomedical Engineers II | W | 3 credits | 2G | M. Wyss | |
| Abstract | This course offers an introduction into the structure and function of the human body, and how these are interlinked with one another. Focusing on physiology, the visualization of anatomy is supported by 3D-animation, Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance imaging. | |||||
| Learning objective | To understand basic principles and structure of the human body in consideration of the clinical relevance and the medical terminology used in medical work and research. | |||||
| Content | Digestive system, nutrition and digestion Thermal balance and thermoregulation Kidneys and urinary system Endocrine system and hormones Reproductive System Basic anatomy of neck, face and cranium Basics of neurophysiology and neuroanatomy Sense organs | |||||
| Lecture notes | Lecture notes and handouts | |||||
| Literature | Silbernagl S., Despopoulos A. Color Atlas of Physiology; Thieme 2008 Faller A., Schuenke M. The Human Body; Thieme 2004 Netter F. Atlas of human anatomy; Elsevier 2014 | |||||
| 752-1300-00L | Introduction to Toxicology | W | 3 credits | 2V | R. Eggen, S. J. Sturla | |
| Abstract | Introduction to how chemical properties and biological interactions govern the disposition and influences of toxicants. | |||||
| Learning objective | The objectives are for the student to establish a framework for examining adverse effects resulting from exposures to toxicants by understanding key mechanisms that give rise to toxic responses and disease processes. | |||||
| Content | This course will introduce mechanisms governing the chemical disposition and biological influences of toxicants. The course is geared toward advanced bachelors students in food science, environmental science, and related disciplines, such as chemistry, biology and pharmaceutical sciences. Examples of topics include: dose-response relationships and risk assessment, absorption, transport, and biotransformation of xenobiotic chemicals; Carcinogenesis; DNA damage, repair, and mutation; Immunotoxicity; Neurotoxicity; and modern toxicity testing strategies. These fundamental concepts in Mechanistic Toxicology will be integrated with examples of toxicants relevant to food, drugs and the environment. | |||||
| Literature | Casarett & Doull's Toxicology, The Basic Science of Poisons. Seventh Edition. Editor: Curtis D. Klaassen, 2008, McGraw-Hill. (available on-line) | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Basic knowledge of organic chemistry and biochemistry is required. | |||||
| Soil Sciences | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
| 701-0362-00L | Soils and Vegetation of the Alps (Excursion)  Diese Exkursion (max. 24 Plätze) gehört zur Vorlesung «Flora und Vegetation der Alpen» (701-0364-00; A. Widmer). Sie kann nur gleichzeitig mit der Vorlesung oder nach bestandener Prüfung belegt werden. Alternativ ist eine Teilnahme möglich mit bestandenen Prüfungen in «Bodenchemie» (701-0533-00L; R. Kretzschmar, D.I. Christl) und «Pedosphäre» (701-0501-00L; R. Kretzschmar). | W | 2 credits | 2P | A. Widmer, R. Kretzschmar | |
| Abstract | The excursion in the area of Davos illustrates how climatic and edaphic factors shape the distribution of alpine plants. Visits of multiple sites on different bedrocks in the subalpine and alpine elevational belts reveal connections between climatic conditions, soil formation and vegetation development. | |||||
| Learning objective | The students - understand how parent rock, topography, climate, and vegetation influence soil forming processes and resulting soil properties (e.g. nutrients, water) in the Alps. - understand, how climatic and edaphic factors affect the occurrence and distribution of alpine plants. - are familiar with characteristic plant communities on acidic, basic and ultramafic bedrock in the subalpine and alpine elevational belts. - know characteristic plant species and plant communities of the subalpine and alpine elevational belts in the Alps. | |||||
| Content | 4-day excursion in the area of Davos with visits of sites on different bedrock (dolomite, gneiss/mica schist, amphibolite, serpentinite) in the subalpine and alpine elevational belts. Structure, development and characteristics of the soils and of their effects on the vegetation; characteristic plant species and communities on different soil types. | |||||
| Lecture notes | A guide to the excursion will be made available. | |||||
| Literature | Landolt E. 2003: Unsere Alpenflora. 7.Aufl., SAC-Verlag. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Please note that this course will be taught in German. | |||||
| 701-0518-00L | Soil Resources and Global Change | W | 3 credits | 2G | S. Dötterl, M. W. Evangelou | |
| Abstract | Introduction into the importance, concepts and areas of action related to soil development and the use of soil resources in a changing world. | |||||
| Learning objective | Understanding the - conditions under which soils develop and are used at the global scale - consequences and problems of the use of soil and the resulting pressure on soil resources - impact of climate and global change on the future development of soil resources | |||||
| Content | Soil functions and soil formation; regional and global soil development, impacts of land use on soil water and gas circulation; forms of soil pollution and degradation; regional and global estimates of soil degradation; soil amendment and remediation of contaminated soils; planning and legal implementation of soil protection. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Handouts will be available for download. Related scientific articles will be recommended after each session. | |||||
| Literature | Some useful text books to know of: - Scheffer/Schachtschabel - Soil Science, Springer, Heidelberg, 2016. - Brady N.C. and Weil, R.R. The Nature and Properties of Soils. 14th ed. Prentice Hall, 2007. - Press & Siever: Allgemeine Geologie, 7th ed., Springer, Heidelberg, 2016. - Mason/Burt - Physical Geography, 5th ed., Oxford Uni. Press, Oxford, 2015. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: Interest in physical geography and soil development. Basic knowledge in chemistry, biology and geology. A previous participation in lecture "Pedosphere" (701-0501-00L) is recommended. | |||||
| 701-0524-00L | Soil Biology | W | 3 credits | 2V | O. Daniel, B. W. Frey | |
| Abstract | Soil organisms play a key role in natural soil functions. The course focuses on anthropogenic impacts such as management, land-use change and climate change on soil biodiversity. | |||||
| Learning objective | Basic knowledge on biological structures and functions in soil. Discussion of biological interactions, nutrient cycles and energy fluxes in the subsurface. Here we try to answer the following questions: How do environmental factors influence soil organisms? How they can be studied and how they are influenced? Which ecosystem functions are performed by soil organisms? What are important microbial processes in the carbon and nitrogen cycle? | |||||
| Content | Structure of the habitat soil: Chemical, physical and biological factors coupling soil-water-air. Structure of soil biocoenoses. Soil fauna-environment and soil microorganism-environment interactions. Nutrient cycles, organic matter decomposition and biologically catalyzed processes in soil. Evaluation of soil biological methods. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Handouts and student assignments will be distributed during the course. | |||||
| Literature | No specific books required. Some recommendations will be given in the course | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: basic knowledge in soil physics, soil chemistry, zoology and mikrobiology. | |||||
| 701-1802-00L | Ecology of Forest Soil Theoretical and practical knowledge in soil science are required for this lecture. The successful attendace of the following classes meet the requirements e.g. 701-0501-00L Pedosphere, 701-0034-06L Integrated Practical: Soil, 701-0560-00L Practical "Forests and Landscapes" | W | 3 credits | 2G | S. Zimmermann, J. Luster | |
| Abstract | Deepen and apply basic knowledge in forest soil ecology obtained in previous courses; includes autonomous study of selected questions in working groups and lectures on case studies. | |||||
| Learning objective | - Deepen and apply the basic knowledge in forest soil ecology obtained in previous courses (Bachelor degree). - Get familiar with current issues in forest soil ecology based on case studies directed to practical problems - Gain a deeper understanding through autonomous studies of selected questions in forest ecology in working groups. This includes an autonomous soil description in the field. | |||||
| Content | - Overview of forest soils in Switzerland /concept of reference soils - Forest and water (hydromorphic soils, water retention, flood protection and forest soils) - Physical soil protection in forests: DPSIR approch (driver-pressure-state-impact-response), regeneration after compaction - Acidification of forest soils - Inorganic soil contamination (focus on heavy metals) - spatial soil information (soil maps, extrapolation of point information) - Long-term forest ecosystem research: monitoring of atmospheric pollution and reaction of the soil (soil solution and soil matrix) - Nutrient pools and cycling in the soil environment - Soil-plant-interactions / processes in the rhizosphere - Carbon balance and global change - Land-use effects on the carbon balance - Drought and forest soils | |||||
| Lecture notes | Lecture notes, working material exercises will be handed out. | |||||
| Literature | - Walthert, L., Zimmermann, S., Blaser, P., Luster, J., Lüscher, P., 2004: Waldböden der Schweiz. Volume 1. Grundlagen und Region Jura. Birmensdorf, Eidgenössische Forschungsanstalt WSL. Bern, Hep Verlag, 768 pp. - Blaser, P., Zimmermann, S., Luster, J., Walthert, L., Lüscher, P. 2005: Waldböden der Schweiz. Volume 2. Regionen Alpen und Alpensüdseite. Birmensdorf, Eidgenössische Forschungsanstalt WSL. Bern, Hep Verlag, 920 pp. - Zimmermann, S., Luster, J., Blaser, P., Walthert, L., Lüscher, P. (2006): Waldböden der Schweiz. Volume 3. Regionen Mittelland und Voralpen. Birmensdorf, Eidgenössische Forschungsanstalt WSL. Bern, Hep Verlag. 848 pp. - Ott, E., Frehner, M., Frey, H.-U., Lüscher, P., 1997: Gebirgsnadelwälder. Ein praxisorientierter Leitfaden für eine standortgerechte Waldbehandlung. Haupt, Bern. 287 pp. - Blume, H.P., Brümmer, G., Horn, R., Kandeler, E., Kögel-Knabner, I., Kretzschmar, R., Stahr, K., Wilke, B.M. 2010. Scheffer/Schachtschabel, Lehrbuch der Bodenkunde, 16th edition, Spektrum Akademischer Verlage, Heidelberg, 569 pp. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | - Practical field work as a basis for a presentation held during class is part of the requirement. Workload approximately 1 day. - Each learning unit of 2 hours will be organised as follows. A lecture of one hour is followed by an hour of autonomous study in working groups on a selected topic. - It is required that students have some knowledge in practical Soil Science (recommended: Integrated applied soil course, 4th semester, and courses of the specialization "Wald und Landschaft", part site classification (soil science & phytosociology) 6th semester) | |||||
| 701-0522-01L | Applied Soil Ecology | W | 2 credits | 2G | A. M. Gramlich | |
| Abstract | This self-guided e-learning course gives students the possibility to deepen their knowledge and understanding in important areas of soil science and to apply it in little case studies to real-world problems. | |||||
| Learning objective | To deepen the knowledge and understanding of important topics in soil science and to learn by means of selected example cases– how this knowledge can be applied to solve in real-world problems in soil use and protection. | |||||
| Content | The course consists of 8 modules, of which three must be worked through to gain 2 credit points: 1) water storage in soil, 2) dynamics of soil organic matter, 3) soil erosion, 4) soil aeration and soil compaction, 5) soil acidification, 6) fertility and sustainable use of soil, 7) soil contamination and remediation, 8) soil salinization | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Basic knowledge in soil sciences. | |||||
| Methodes of Statistical Data Analysis | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
| 701-0104-00L | Statistical Modelling of Spatial Data | W | 3 credits | 2G | A. J. Papritz | |
| Abstract | In environmental sciences one often deals with spatial data. When analysing such data the focus is either on exploring their structure (dependence on explanatory variables, autocorrelation) and/or on spatial prediction. The course provides an introduction to geostatistical methods that are useful for such analyses. | |||||
| Learning objective | The course will provide an overview of the basic concepts and stochastic models that are used to model spatial data. In addition, participants will learn a number of geostatistical techniques and acquire familiarity with R software that is useful for analyzing spatial data. | |||||
| Content | After an introductory discussion of the types of problems and the kind of data that arise in environmental research, an introduction into linear geostatistics (models: stationary and intrinsic random processes, modelling large-scale spatial patterns by linear regression, modelling autocorrelation by variogram; kriging: mean square prediction of spatial data) will be taught. The lectures will be complemented by data analyses that the participants have to do themselves. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Slides, descriptions of the problems for the data analyses and solutions to them will be provided. | |||||
| Literature | P.J. Diggle & P.J. Ribeiro Jr. 2007. Model-based Geostatistics. Springer. Bivand, R. S., Pebesma, E. J. & Gómez-Rubio, V. 2013. Applied Spatial Data Analysis with R. Springer. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Familiarity with linear regression analysis (e.g. equivalent to the first part of the course 401-0649-00L Applied Statistical Regression) and with the software R (e.g. 401-6215-00L Using R for Data Analysis and Graphics (Part I), 401-6217-00L Using R for Data Analysis and Graphics (Part II)) are required for attending the course. | |||||
| 401-0102-00L | Applied Multivariate Statistics | W | 5 credits | 2V + 1U | F. Sigrist | |
| Abstract | Multivariate statistics analyzes data on several random variables simultaneously. This course introduces the basic concepts and provides an overview of classical and modern methods of multivariate statistics including visualization, dimension reduction, supervised and unsupervised learning for multivariate data. An emphasis is on applications and solving problems with the statistical software R. | |||||
| Learning objective | After the course, you are able to: - describe the various methods and the concepts behind them - identify adequate methods for a given statistical problem - use the statistical software R to efficiently apply these methods - interpret the output of these methods | |||||
| Content | Visualization, multivariate outliers, the multivariate normal distribution, dimension reduction, principal component analysis, multidimensional scaling, factor analysis, cluster analysis, classification, multivariate tests and multiple testing | |||||
| Lecture notes | None | |||||
| Literature | 1) "An Introduction to Applied Multivariate Analysis with R" (2011) by Everitt and Hothorn 2) "An Introduction to Statistical Learning: With Applications in R" (2013) by Gareth, Witten, Hastie and Tibshirani Electronic versions (pdf) of both books can be downloaded for free from the ETH library. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | This course is targeted at students with a non-math background. Requirements: ========== 1) Introductory course in statistics (min: t-test, regression; ideal: conditional probability, multiple regression) 2) Good understanding of R (if you don't know R, it is recommended that you study chapters 1,2,3,4, and 5 of "Introductory Statistics with R" from Peter Dalgaard, which is freely available online from the ETH library) An alternative course with more emphasis on theory is 401-6102-00L "Multivariate Statistics" (only every second year). 401-0102-00L and 401-6102-00L are mutually exclusive. You can register for only one of these two courses. | |||||
| 401-6624-11L | Applied Time Series | W | 5 credits | 2V + 1U | M. Dettling | |
| Abstract | The course starts with an introduction to time series analysis (examples, goal, mathematical notation). In the following, descriptive techniques, modeling and prediction as well as advanced topics will be covered. | |||||
| Learning objective | Getting to know the mathematical properties of time series, as well as the requirements, descriptive techniques, models, advanced methods and software that are necessary such that the student can independently run an applied time series analysis. | |||||
| Content | The course starts with an introduction to time series analysis that comprises of examples and goals. We continue with notation and descriptive analysis of time series. A major part of the course will be dedicated to modeling and forecasting of time series using the flexible class of ARMA models. More advanced topics that will be covered in the following are time series regression, state space models and spectral analysis. | |||||
| Lecture notes | A script will be available. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | The course starts with an introduction to time series analysis that comprises of examples and goals. We continue with notation and descriptive analysis of time series. A major part of the course will be dedicated to modeling and forecasting of time series using the flexible class of ARMA models. More advanced topics that will be covered in the following are time series regression, state space models and spectral analysis. | |||||
| Ecology and Conservation Biology | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
| 701-0303-00L | Forest Communities and Their Sites | W | 2 credits | 1G | H.‑U. Frey | |
| Abstract | Systematic overview of Swiss forest vegetation, communities and their site factors and methods of vegetation survey will be shown. | |||||
| Learning objective | * Knowledge of important forest communities and their site factors. * Interpretation of communities in relation of their ecology, management and preservation. * Knowledge of importent plants and their indicator values. * Understanding the interaction of site factors and communities. * Knowledge of the methods of the analysis of vegetation data and their critical evaluation. | |||||
| Content | Eine systematische Übersicht über die Waldvegetation der Schweiz und deren Standortsverhältnisse wird aufgezeigt. Wichtige Standortstypen, deren charakteristische Pflanzenzusammensetzung, ausschlaggebende Faktoren und Bewirtschaftungshinweise werden vermittelt. Besprochen werden zudem grundlegende Konzepte und Methoden der Vegetationskunde, Probleme der Datenerhebung und verschiedene Ansätze der Datenauswertung. Die Disziplin wird in der Geschichte der Naturwissenschaften positioniert. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Wird während dem Unterricht verteilt. Die Unterlagen stehen auch unter www.fe.ethz.ch, Rubrik Lehre/Lehrmaterialien/Lehrmaterialien zum Herunterladen zur Verfügung (nethz-Zugriff). Sämtliche während der Vorlesung gezeigten Abbildungen stehen auf www.fe.ethz.ch zur Verfügung. Ein eigens zusammengestelltes e-learning Programm kann auf www.fe.ethz.ch heruntergeladen werden. | |||||
| Literature | BAFU (2005) Nachhaltigkeit und Erfolgskontrolle im Schutzwald. http://www.bafu.admin.ch/publikationen/publikation/00732 Ellenberg, H. (1996) Vegetation Mitteleuropas mit den Alpen 5.Aufl. Ulmer, Stuttgart. Ott E., Frehner M., Frey, H.U., Lüscher, P. (1997) Gebirgsnadelwälder. Haupt, Bern. Steiger P., (2010) Wälder der Schweiz 4.Aufl. Ott Thun | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Die Lehrveranstaltung "Waldvegetation und Waldstandorte" ist Voraussetzung zum Verständnis der im Praktikum "Wald und Landschaft - Teil Standortskunde" gebotenen Inhalte! | |||||
| 701-0310-00L | Conservation Biology | W | 2 credits | 2G | F. Knaus | |
| Abstract | In this course, the students explore ecological approaches, philosophical foundations, and practical implementations of conservation activities. Based on case studies, they are introduced to different views, values and ideals inherent in these activities. | |||||
| Learning objective | Students of this course are able to: - understand the historical development and the current state of biodiversity and estimate possible future trends - explain the economic legal, political and philosophical foundations of conservation activities - define different possibilities of how conservation can be implemented in practice - identify and critically appraise normative elements in conservation - analyse and evaluate a nature conservation project from conception to successful completion. | |||||
| Content | The course covers the following content: - Describe and analyse the past, current and future human impacts on biodiversity. - Explore alternative approaches to nature conservation and their implementation for example species or habitat protection, restorations, parks, etc. - Discuss the ethical, moral, legal, and economic reasons for conservation. - Understand the main theories relevant to conservation such as the vulnerability of small populations, ecosystem services, biodiversity, etc. - Explore practical examples during excursions and provide an analysis and evaluation of concrete case studies. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Kein Skript | |||||
| Literature | Küster H. 1999: Geschichte der Landschaft in Mitteleuropa. Von der Eiszeit bis zur Gegenwart. Beck, München, Germany. 424p. Piechocki R. 2010: Landschaft, Heimat, Wildnis. Schutz der Natur - aber welcher und warum? Beck'sche Reihe, Beck, München, Germany. 266p. Primack R.B. 2008: A primer of Conservation Biology. Fourth Edition. Sinauer Associates, Sunderland MA, USA. 349p. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Kenntnisse aus den folgenden LV sind vorausgesetzt: - Allgemeine Biologie I - Allgemeine Biologie II - Biologie III: Ökologie - Biologie IV: Diversität der Pflanzen und Tiere | |||||
| 701-0314-00L | Plant Diversity: Colline/Montane Prerequisite: Enrollment and successful performance assessment of LV 701-0360-00L (Systematic Biology: Plants). Enrollment for target group until 16.02.2020 Waiting list until 27.03.2020. The excursion fee has to be payed until 02.03.2020. Unpaid places will be given to students on the waiting list. | W | 3 credits | 6P | R. Berndt, A. Guggisberg | |
| Abstract | The practical focuses on the flora and vegetation of the central Rhone valley in the canton Valais. During an excursion to Visp, the students will deepen their knowledge of plant species and learn to recognize important vegetation units and their ecological characteristics. An introductory lecture will be given in Zurich. | |||||
| Learning objective | Knowledge of the most important vegetation types, their flora and ecological conditions in an intramontane xeric valley (central Rhone valley). Consolidation of taxonomic and plant morphological knowledge. Experience in plant determination using scientific determination keys. Teaching of basic collecting and herbarium techniques. | |||||
| Content | This course provides an introduction to the flora and vegetation of the central Wallis. During the excursions, the students will become acquainted with one of the botanically richest regions of Switzerland. They will study the diverse vegetation types, their species diversity and the respective environmental conditions. Besides deepening the knowledge of plant species and vegetation, we will focus on the climatic and biogeographic framework in the central Wallis and the enormous impact of man on all vegetation types, even seemingly pristine ones. During the excursions and in the evenings there will be plenty of time to practice the identification of vascular plant species with a scientific flora and to get to know how plants should be collected, pressed and prepared for the herbarium. | |||||
| Literature | -Baltisberger M., Nyffeler R. & Widmer A. 2013: Systematische Botanik. 4., vollständig überarbeitete und erweiterte Aufl. v/d/f Hochschulverlag AG an der ETH Zürich. -Hess H.E., Landolt E., Hirzel R. & Baltisberger M. 2015: Bestimmungsschlüssel zur Flora der Schweiz. 7., aktualisierte und überarbeitete Aufl., Birkhäuser Verlag, Basel/Boston/Berlin. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | We only admit students to the practical who have successfully completed the introductory lectures of Prof. Leuchtmann and the associated exercises and excursions (cf. course 701-0360-00L). It is expected that the participants know how to use a determination key (Bestimmungsschlüssel zur Flora der Schweiz) and understand the necessary botanical terminology. Students from other universities are requested to contact the lecturers. Program: 2.6.: Introduction (Zurich, ETH Zentrum, CHN building) 9.-13.6.: Excursion to Valais (Visp) 16.6. (morning): Exam (Zurich, ETH Zentrum, CHN building) The excursion will take place in the mountains under any weather conditions. The participants should be equipped appropriately to cope with rough and steep terrain and adverse weather conditions. Sturdy mountain boots are mandatory! | |||||
| 701-0314-01L | Plant Diversity: Subalpine/Alpine Prerequisite: Enrollment and successful performance assessment of LV 701-0360-00L (Systematic Biology: Plants). Enrollment for target group until 16.02.2020 Waiting list until 27.03.2020. The excursion fee has to be payed until 02.03.2020. Unpaid places will be given to students on the waiting list. | W | 3 credits | 6P | A. Guggisberg, R. Berndt | |
| Abstract | The practical focuses on the flora and vegetation of the northern Alps and covers the altitudinal range between the upper montane and the lower alpine zone. During an excursion to Kandersteg, the students will deepen their knowledge of plant species and learn to recognize important vegetation units and their ecological characteristics. An introduction will be provided in Zurich. | |||||
| Learning objective | Getting to know the most important vegetation types, their flora and ecological conditions in the northern Alps (Bernese Oberland). Consolidation of taxonomic and plant morphological knowledge. Experience in plant determination using scientific determination keys. | |||||
| Content | This course provides an introduction to the flora and vegetation of the northern Alps. During the excursions, the students will become acquainted with the botanical richness of the Alps and the ecological specificities of the encountered habitats. The students will not only gain knowledge in plant species, but also learn which environmental conditions do plants cope with and which adaptation they have evolved. We will further introduce the geology of the Alps and investigate, how the bedrock influences the vegetation in the alpine zone. Following topics will be addressed in this course: 1) Lectures: Climatic and geological divisions of the Alps. Effect of local conditions on vegetation of different altitudes. Adaptation of plants to various alpine conditions. 2) Excursions: Identification of vascular plant species. Characteristic vegetation types of the subalpine and alpine zone (e.g. subalpine conifer forests, tall-herb communities and green alder scrubs, alpine grassland and scree vegetation, subalpine floodplain forest with fens) and their ecological conditions. Interaction between plants and their environment: examples from pollination, reproduction and dispersal strategies; Adaptations of plant species to their environment. | |||||
| Literature | -Baltisberger M., Nyffeler R. & Widmer A. 2013: Systematische Botanik. 4., vollständig überarbeitete und erweiterte Aufl. v/d/f Hochschulverlag AG an der ETH Zürich. -Hess H.E., Landolt E., Hirzel R. & Baltisberger M. 2015: Bestimmungsschlüssel zur Flora der Schweiz. 7., aktualisierte und überarbeitete Aufl., Birkhäuser Verlag, Basel/Boston/Berlin. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | We only admit students to the practical who have successfully completed the introductory lectures in systematic botany of Prof. Leuchtmann together with the associated exercises and excursions (cf. course 701-0360-00L). In addition, we expect that the participants know how to use a determination key (Bestimmungsschlüssel zur Flora der Schweiz) and understand the necessary terminology. Students from other universities are requested to contact the lecturers. Program: 16.6. (afternoon) Introduction for subsequent week (Zurich, ETH Centre, CHN building) 22.6.-26.6. Excursion northern Alps (Kandersteg) 29.6. Exam and visit of Herbarium (Zurich, Botanical Garden, University of Zurich). The excursion will take place in the mountains under any weather conditions. The participants should be able to cope with rough and steep terrain and should bring appropriate equipment. Sturdy mountain boots are mandatory! Course fees: The ETH Departments of Biology and Environmental Systems Sciences financially support this excursion. The costs amount CHF 260.- per student and cover transport, accommodation and full board. | |||||
| 701-0316-00L | Woody Plants of Central Europe | W | 3 credits | 2G | A. Rudow | |
| Abstract | Trees and shrubs are significant structural elements of forests and landscapes and drivers of several important ecosystem processes. The course builds on the Introduction to Dendrology (Autumn Semester) and provides a wide survey about the woody plant flora of Central Europe as well as an in-depth knowledge of the identification, the ecology and the use of a large palett of selected species. | |||||
| Learning objective | Advanced knowledge of the woody plant species native in Middle Europe. Ability to identify selected species and taxonomic groups as well as ability to decribe and explain their morphological, physiological and ecological characteristics. Practical knowledge of in situ observation of woody plants and a differentiated view on forest ecosystems. | |||||
| Content | Enlargement of the basic knowledge about woody plants on the basis of concrete observations and practical exercises in the classroom as well as on the excursions (building on the course Introduction to Dendrology, Dendrology I). Emphasis on the identification of 160 selected native and introduced tree and shrub species of Central Europe as well as an in-depth knowledge of the mode of life of trees and shrubs and the ecological traits of the 80 most frequent woody plant species (physiology, autecology, synecology, habitat) in the context of current forest and landscape topics. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Rudow, A., 2019: Gehölzpflanzen Mitteleuropas - Folien (in German). Rudow, A., 2019: Dendrologie II - Bestimmungshilfe für 160 einheimische und eingeführte Gehölzarten (in German). Rudow, A., 2019: Dendrologie II - Ökologische Eigenschaften von 80 häufigen einheimischen und eingeführten Gehölzarten (in German). | |||||
| Literature | Aas, G., 2017: Bäume und Sträucher. Bestimmungsschlüssel der Gehölze Mitteleuropas (in German). Steiger, P., 2016: Esche, Espe oder Erle? Pflanzenporträts aller wild wachsenden Gehölze Mitteleuropas (in German). (a broad overview on literature will be given during the course) | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | The course is based on 701-0266-00L Introduction into Dendrology (Dendrology I). This or equivalent knowledge is a prerequisite for the course. Half of the course will be held in form of excursions and exercises in the forest (Zurich, Argovia, Alps) and botanical collections. Weatherproof clothes are presupposed. | |||||
| 701-0322-00L | Seminar with Conservation Practitioners | W | 2 credits | 2S | R. Holderegger, A. L. Bergamini | |
| Abstract | In this seminar, students meet with conservation practitioners. The students and the practitioners, will consider current concepts and problems in nature conservation. This includes input-presentations by practitioners, and students will discuss and treat relevant problems in more detail. | |||||
| Learning objective | The aim of the seminar is to bring students into contact with practitioners in nature conservation and to consider and discuss current problems of nature conservation in Switzerland. | |||||
| Content | The seminar consists of several blocks, each dealing with a separate problem or topic of nature conservation. Each block includes a presentation and a more-in-depth treatment of the corresponding theme in student groups and discussions. The invited professionals are from national and cantonal authorities, consulting offices, NGOs or from research institutes. Additionally, there is a short excursion. | |||||
| Lecture notes | No script. Diverse material will be made available. | |||||
| Literature | No text book. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | The additional effort of students, in addition to the lecture hours, is about 2 hours per week. The evaluation of student activities is an integral part of the seminar. Teaching form: This seminar needs the active participation of students! It consists of input talks, group work, presentations, discussions, reading and a short excursion. | |||||
| 701-0324-00L | Rain Forest Ecology | W | 2 credits | 2G | C. Kettle, C. D. Philipson | |
| Abstract | Tropical rain forests host most of the world's terrestrial biodiversity, are critical to global climate, and support livelihoods of billions of people. This course addresses their ecology with a view to understanding the impact of management and land use change on Forest resilience and capacity to deliver multiple ecosystem services and support sustainable development. | |||||
| Learning objective | The course has several learning objectives organised in three sections: Overview of rain forest formations 1. Explore the diversity and functioning of one of the world's most important biomes: tropical rain forests. The ecology and dynamics of rain forest systems 2. Introduce and evaluate competing ecological and biogeographic theories of species coexistence. 3. Understand how interacting ecological processes acting over multiple time and spatial scales can shape patterns of species diversity. 4. Explore how species, functional groups and environment interact to shape rain forest structure and function. Conservation and management of tropical rain forest regions 5. Recognise and understand the complexity of threats facing rain forests and their implications to human wellbeing. 6. Apply ecological theory and ecosystem understanding to current conservation challenges. 7. Understand conservation and land management strategies in the tropics and evaluate the conditions for their success A primary objective of the course is to encourage students to use basic ecological knowledge to infer conclusions and evaluate strategies that address more applied environmental challenges. In so doing students would be encouraged to draw upon the ecological knowledge gained from this course, but also from other courses in ecology, ecological genetics, ecosystem function, conservation, agriculture and land use. | |||||
| Content | The course will first address the fundamental ecological processes underlying tropical rain forest form, diversity and function. Building upon this foundation, issues of more applied relevance will be introduced, including threats to rain forests and their biodiversity, and strategies for biodiversity conservation forest protection. This will gradually be developed to incorporate increasingly broader and global considerations that are highly relevant to tropical rain forests including land use in the context of increasing global food demands and the need to reduce global carbon emissions. The course will draw on ecological theory, biodiversity assessment, economic theory, remote sensing technologies, spatial modelling, environmental services, ecosystem management and land use planning, and will therefore be complementary to a variety of other courses offered at Bachelor and Masters level. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Leture notes will be provided as necessary for each session. A list of references and case studies will also be given. Each classes will be orientated by a plenary lecture, followed by extensive class discussions and group exercises to be conducted in the sessions. All material will be provided in advance of such discussions. | |||||
| Literature | Ghazoul, J and Sheil, DS (2010) Tropical rain forest ecology, diversity and conservation. Oxford University Press. And current papers selected from the recent literature | |||||
| 701-0362-00L | Soils and Vegetation of the Alps (Excursion) Diese Exkursion (max. 24 Plätze) gehört zur Vorlesung «Flora und Vegetation der Alpen» (701-0364-00; A. Widmer). Sie kann nur gleichzeitig mit der Vorlesung oder nach bestandener Prüfung belegt werden. Alternativ ist eine Teilnahme möglich mit bestandenen Prüfungen in «Bodenchemie» (701-0533-00L; R. Kretzschmar, D.I. Christl) und «Pedosphäre» (701-0501-00L; R. Kretzschmar). | W | 2 credits | 2P | A. Widmer, R. Kretzschmar | |
| Abstract | The excursion in the area of Davos illustrates how climatic and edaphic factors shape the distribution of alpine plants. Visits of multiple sites on different bedrocks in the subalpine and alpine elevational belts reveal connections between climatic conditions, soil formation and vegetation development. | |||||
| Learning objective | The students - understand how parent rock, topography, climate, and vegetation influence soil forming processes and resulting soil properties (e.g. nutrients, water) in the Alps. - understand, how climatic and edaphic factors affect the occurrence and distribution of alpine plants. - are familiar with characteristic plant communities on acidic, basic and ultramafic bedrock in the subalpine and alpine elevational belts. - know characteristic plant species and plant communities of the subalpine and alpine elevational belts in the Alps. | |||||
| Content | 4-day excursion in the area of Davos with visits of sites on different bedrock (dolomite, gneiss/mica schist, amphibolite, serpentinite) in the subalpine and alpine elevational belts. Structure, development and characteristics of the soils and of their effects on the vegetation; characteristic plant species and communities on different soil types. | |||||
| Lecture notes | A guide to the excursion will be made available. | |||||
| Literature | Landolt E. 2003: Unsere Alpenflora. 7.Aufl., SAC-Verlag. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Please note that this course will be taught in German. | |||||
| 701-0364-00L | Flora and Vegetation of the Alps Zur dieser Vorlesung gehört eine 4-tägige Exkursion (max. 24 Plätze) nach Davos. Für eine Teilnahme an der Exkursion muss die Lehrveranstaltung «Böden und Vegetation der Alpen» (Nr. 701-0362-00) separat belegt werden. | W | 1 credit | 1V | A. Widmer | |
| Abstract | This course provides an introduction to the flora and vegetation of the Alps. This includes the climatic conditions at different elevations, the origin of Alpine plants, centers of diversity, ecological requirements and adaptations to prevailing environmental conditions, as well as characteristic plant communities at different altitudes and soil types. | |||||
| Learning objective | The students - understand how climatic and edaphic factors affect the occurrence and distribution of alpine plants - know characteristic plant species of the subalpine and alpine elevational belts in the Alps - are familiar with characteristic plant communities on acidic, basic and ultramafic soils in the subalpine and alpine elevational belts. | |||||
| Content | Climatic conditions at different elevations in the Alps; origin and distribution patterns; centers of diversity; ecological requirements and adaptations to prevailing environmental conditions; altitudinal belts; characteristic plant communities on different bedrock (dolomite, acidic and basic silicates, serpentine). | |||||
| Lecture notes | Course material will be provided. | |||||
| Literature | Landolt E. 2003: Unsere Alpenflora. 7.Aufl., SAC-Verlag. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Solid background in systematic botany and successful participation in the course "Systematic Biology: Plants" (Nr. 701-0360-00). It is further recommended that students have also participated in the block course "Plant Diversity" (Nr. 701-2314-00L), or alternatively the two courses "Plant Diversity: Colline/Montane" (701-0314-00L) and "Plant Diversity: Subalpine/Alpine" (701-0314-01L). Notice: The 4-day excursion “Soils and Vegetation of the Alps” (Nr. 701-0362-00) belongs to this lecture course. The excursion takes place in Davos from Wednesday 1 July to Saturday 4 July 2020. Please note that this course will be taught in German. | |||||
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