This is an introductory module for special topics in the fields of applied Micropalaeontology and Palaeoenvironment .

 Upon successful completion of this module the students will be able to:

1. Understand the importance of microfossils and micropalaeontology in the stratigraphic and geological research.
2. Being aware of key groups of microfossils that are used widely in biostratigraphy and palaeoecology.
3. Use adequately stereoscopes and optical microscopes for the observation, study and identification of microfossils.
4. Being able to identify with the use of microscopy key groups of microfossils.
5. Learn how to study microfossils for the extraction of biostratigraphical, palaeoecological and palaeoenvironmental conclusions.
6. Be trained in topics concerning the taxonomy of organisms, the evolutionary mechanisms as well as the contribution of fossils in stratigraphic research.
7. Apply methods of preparation, taxonomy and palaeoecology on sediment samples that they have collected.
8. Compose their data collecting information from literature, making comparisons and writing a paper structured essay.

Generally, by the end of this course the student will, furthermore, have developed the following general abilities:

1. Search, analyze and synthesize data and information, using the necessary technologies.
2. Working in a multidisciplinary environment
3. Working in an international environment.
4. Independent work.
5. Group work.
6. Generating new research ideas.
7. Respecting the environment.
8. Criticism and self-criticism.
9. Promoting free and creative thinking.

1. Micropalaeontology – Microfossils - Applications – Marine environments – Palaeoecology – Microfossils and sedimentation – Preparation and observation methods
2. Phylogenetics – Cladistics
3. Applied Palaeontology
4. The use of microfossils in biostratigraphy, chronostratigraphy and the determination of the palaeoenvironment
5. Foraminifera
6. Radiolaria
7. Diatoms
8. Calcareous nannoplankton
9. Ostracods
10. Microvertebrates
11. Palynology
12. Otoliths

Ι) Written long essay, preparation and study of actual micropalaeontological sample collected during fieldwork. The mark consists 50% of the final grade.

ΙΙ) Written reports following the completion of each practical. The mean mark of the reports consists the other 50% of the final grade.

Minimum passing grade:  5.

Final Course Grade (FCG)

FCG = ( written long essay + practical reports ) / 2

The language of assessment is in Greek. If foreign students attend the course, their assessment in English.

Suggested bibliography:

1. Armstrong, H., Brasier, M., 2005. Microfossils, Blackwell Publishing Ltd, 2nd edition, Oxford
2. Saraswati, P.K., Srinivasan, M.S., 2016: Micropaleontology: Principles and Applications, Springer.
3. Martin, R.E. (Ed.), 2000: Environmental Micropaleontology: The Application of Microfossils to Environmental Geology, Springer.
4. Notes of lecturers in Greek.