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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2012 - 2013

Module Title Enviromental Biotechnology Laboratories
Module Code BE256
School School of Biotechnology

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorDr Brid QuiltyOffice NumberX208
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

In this module the student will be introduced to ecology with particular emphasis on plant ecology and environmental microbiology. The student will work in the laboratory and in the field.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate practical knowledge on sampling techniques
2. understand the importance of laboratory safety and care of equipment
3. carry out modern laboratory practices in the study of environmental processes and samples
4. appreciate the requirements of record keeping, report writing and oral communications
5. combine theory and practical approaches to problem-solving in the laboratory
6. analyse experimental data using statistics
7. experience the demands of working within groups.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Laboratory54No Description
Independent Study71independent learning
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Assessment of a river water quality - based on macroinvertebrate data
Fieldtrip* to sample aquatic invertebrates from Tolka river at Lucan; analysis of sampled material (identification of aquatic animals using keys and charts) determining of Biotic Index – devised by EPA Ireland river Quality index; writing a final report.

. Bio test: toxicity of household cleaning solutions to certain test plant species.
Setting up biotest using two common aquatic plant species (a moss Fontinalis antypyretica and a duck weed) to test toxicity of household liquids (washing up liquid, domestos etc..); comparison of toxicity of the chemicals to the plants tested. Calculation of LC50 and using Student T-test to check potency of the chemicals used. Writing a final report.

Estimation of phytoplankton concentration in samples of pond and river water
Fieldtrip to sample river water for phytoplankton analysis, preparation of water samples for analysis- using sedimentation method, estimation of phytoplankton concentration (diatom) using Sedgwick-Rafter counting chamber. Identification of common species using keys and charts provided. Comparison of two different aquatic habitats in respect of phytoplankton concentration and diversity. Writing a final report.

Estimation of Chlorophyll a in river water samples
Sampling water for chlorophyll a analysis. Preparation of samples: pigment extraction. Spectrophotometric determination of chlorophyll a concentration using DMSO. Interpretation of results, writing final report.

Microbiological techniques
Use of selective and differential media to distinguish between bacteria

Microbiological analysis of water
Aerobic colony count using the spread plate technique

Glucose assay
The GOD-PAP assay

Bacterial identification
Use of colony and cell characteristics, biochemical testing including API strips for bacterial identification

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Bellinger, G.: 1992, A key to common algae-freshwater, estuarine and some costal species. London.,
  • Environmental Protection Agency.: 2007, Proposed Quality Standards for Surface Water Classification.,
  • Fowler, J, Cohen, L., Jarvis, P.: 1998, Practical Statistics for Field Biology.,
  • Henderson, P.A. .: 2003, Practical Methods in Ecology., Blackwell Publishing,
  • Croft, P. S.,: 1986, A key to the major groups of British freshwater invertebrates.,
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
ESHBSc Environmental Science & Health
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