Course: Microbiology for Ecologists

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Course title Microbiology for Ecologists
Course code BOT/MBE
Organizational form of instruction Lecture + Exercise
Level of course Bachelor
Year of study not specified
Semester Winter
Number of ECTS credits 4
Language of instruction Czech
Status of course Compulsory
Form of instruction Face-to-face
Work placements This is not an internship
Recommended optional programme components None
Lecturer(s)
  • Sedlářová Michaela, doc. RNDr. Ph.D.
Course content
The importance of microorganisms in the evolution of life on Earth Methods of studying microorganisms, cultivation, biochemical, imaging methods, microbial phylogenetics Nutrition and metabolism of microorganisms (fermentation, respiration, photosynthesis) Environmental factors and microorganisms (significant physical and chemical environmental factors affecting the life/growth of microorganisms) Microorganisms in various types of environments (air, water, soil) The importance of microorganisms in the ecosystem (mutual interactions of microorganisms, microbial biofilms, relationships between microorganisms and plants, relationships between microorganisms and animals) The importance of microorganisms in the biogeochemical cycle of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur and iron Microorganisms and humans (anthropogenic activity and its impact on microorganisms, interactions of microorganisms with humans - hygienic importance of microorganisms, WWTP, biodegradation, pest control) Exercise: the practical exercises involve isolating microorganisms from various environments and materials (soil, air, own students´ skin, plants, food, etc.), demonstrating procedures used to identify bacteria and micromycetesparticularly cultivation and microscopy methodsand developing student skills (microorganism inoculation techniques, resistance testing, staining, and microscopy). Students are introduced to aseptic working methods, risks of sample contamination, safety work principles, and the limitations of conclusions (distinguishing results based on cultivation from the characteristics of the entire microbial community).

Learning activities and teaching methods
Dialogic Lecture (Discussion, Dialog, Brainstorming), Demonstration, Projection (static, dynamic), Training in job and motor Skils, Laboratory Work
Learning outcomes
To introduce students to the field of microbiology with an emphasis on ecology. Learning Outcomes The student: Explains the fundamental metabolic strategies of microorganisms and the influence of environmental conditions on their growth and activity. (1.1.1) Clarifies the role of microorganisms in biogeochemical cycles, in interactions with plants and animals, and in selected processes utilized by humans. (1.1.1) Interprets the results of a selected microbiological method, distinguishes observations from their explanations, and outlines the limitations of the conclusions regarding the procedure used and potential contamination. (1.1.3) Uses a selected modern specialized or digital tool to study microorganisms and explains the capabilities and limitations of the resulting output. (1.1.4) Uses a microscopic image, diagram, or experimental result to explain a selected microbial process clearly and accurately to students at a chosen educational level. (1.2.1)
Students are able to distinguish between individual groups of microorganisms and are familiar with their metabolism, diagnostic methods, roles in ecosystems, and practical applications.
Prerequisites
Knowledge of the prokaryotic and eukaryotic system

Assessment methods and criteria
Oral exam, Written exam, Student performance

100% participation in practicals, protocol, written credit test, presentation, combined exam (written + oral part)
Recommended literature
  • Rulík M, Buriánková I, Brablcová L. (2015). Vybrané kapitoly z molekulární ekologie mikroorganizmů. Olomouc.
  • Tlaskalová-Hogenová, H., Enklová, D. (2024). Mikrobiom a zdraví. Praha.


Study plans that include the course
Faculty Study plan (Version) Category of Branch/Specialization Recommended year of study Recommended semester
Faculty: Faculty of Science Study plan (Version): Ecology and Environmental Protection (2021) Category: Ecology and environmental protection 3 Recommended year of study:3, Recommended semester: Winter