Introduction to Marine Biology

Introduction to Marine Biology provides learners with a foundational understanding of ocean life, marine ecosystems, and the importance of oceans in supporting biodiversity, regulating climate, and sustaining livelihoods. Learners explore ocean zones, deep-sea ecosystems, hydrothermal vents, chemosynthesis, and major marine flora such as phytoplankton, seaweeds, seagrass, and mangroves. The course also introduces key marine fauna, including corals, fish, mollusks, arthropods, echinoderms, and marine mammals. Learners examine threats such as plastic pollution, climate change, ocean acidification, over-exploitation, and coastal development, along with conservation solutions such as ecosystem restoration, green energy, blue carbon, and coastal regulation. Learning Outcomes: > Identify major marine ecosystems, flora, and fauna. > Explain the ecological importance of oceans. > Understand ocean zones and deep-sea ecosystems. > Describe hydrothermal vents and chemosynthesis. > Identify major threats to marine environments. > Explain the effects of climate change on marine life. > Understand practical marine conservation solutions. > Connect marine biology with sustainability and the blue economy. > Earn a certificate of completion.