Training Objective

To teach the taxonomy of Porifera (Demospongiae, Hexactinellida, Homoscleromorpha and Calcarea), with a focus on species found in the Mediterranean Sea. The course included in-depth scientific discussion and comparison, during which participants had the opportunity to examine specimens collected at sea.

Purpose

To provide participants with the basic knowledge required to identify organisms of the phylum Porifera up to the genus level. The course also included preparation and analysis activities using microscopy (optical and scanning) of sponge skeletons and spicules.

Topics Covered

1. phylogeny and taxonomy
2. ecological role
3. overview of families, genera, and species, with particular focus on Mediterranean Demospongiae and Calcarea
4. sampling and specimen processing methodologies