Pre-requisite: 62221
The unit provides detailed knowledge on the processes controlling the functioning of aquatic ecosystems and the influence of human activities on these processes. The main theory topics are: characteristics of aquatic ecosystems, aquatic communities, thermal stratification and mixing patterns of lakes, chemical and biological consequences of thermal stratification, organic carbon cycle, aquatic productivity, phytoplankton growth, trophic status of lakes, zooplankton community, eutrophication, effects of organic wastes on lotic systems and the effects of man's activities on aquatic ecosystems.