Posidonia (Half Day)

Are Algae and Bacteria the only marine primary producers? Is the sea a suitable place for plants? What's the difference between plants and algae?? Seagrass meadows are very important in the world ocean, and specifically in the Mediterranean sea which hosts an endemic species very well distributed all across the Mediterranean basin: Posidonia oceanica which creates vast meadows ranging from 0 to 40mt depth. Seagrass meadows not only produce large amounts of the sought-after gas through photosynthesis, they also strengthen the sediment bottom and create a habitat for several species. Young animals find protection within Posidonia leaves and roots, the available living space for sessile animals is immensely increased, and there's a never-ending production of biomass which is a benefit for all. After a snorkeling excursion and exploration of the green meadow, we use modern multimedia technology to observe the leaves growing and the animals that hide in them.

Sessile Animals (Half Day)

Wide, free sea; There is a lot of free water available to the various inhabitants, but there are limited solid surfaces, rock walls and stable subsoil. The competition for space is great, especially since in water, in contrast to the terrestrial habitat, there are a whole range of sessile animals that are constantly in danger of being overrun by the faster-growing autotrophic plants in light-flooded areas. That's why sessile animals such as sponges and cnidarians move to shadier areas such as caves and rock faces. Different feeding strategies also allow for the occupation of niches with little flow where the food supply is low. 

Fish Biodiversity (Half Day)

 Learn more about the evolution of the vertebrate fish, the most common fish families (possibly genera/species) and their adaptations to their respective habitat. During the subsequent snorkeling excursion, we get to know the local fish using identification boards. Some fish are gently caught and discussed in more detail.

Marine Use/Pollution (Half Day)

How do people use, pollute and exploit, directly and indirectly, the world's oceans? What are the local impacts? After an introductory lecture, the question will be investigated on a (snorkeling) excursion: Is garbage in the sea the same as garbage on land? Our direct influence and opportunities for individuals to reduce exploitation and pollution of marine habitats are discussed.

Ieranto Trip

After a short introductory lecture, a land excursion begins to a nearby bay. Travel through the wonderfully pronounced sclerophyll vegetation over the hills of Nerano with a breathtaking view of the sea and the offshore islands. On the way, learn about the flora and some selected animals, their adaptations and peculiarities, and legends and myths. Once the group has reached the sea, there will be an introduction for the next activity that consists in habitat and species monitoring. Students will be equipped with mask, flippers and underwater board to collect data on the type of seabed and organisms spotted. After this they will work in teams to reproduce Ieranto Underwater Habitat on a common poster which will be presented to the class as map of biocenosis of the bay.