The aim of the course is to provide knowledge on the fundamental principles of ecology, including the abiotic characteristics of terrestrial and aquatic environments, the interactions among organisms and the interactions among organisms and their environment, the impact of anthropogenic activities on the environment, and measures of conservation and management of biological resources, with particular attention to marine ones. The course also provides the elements necessary for understanding the main technological approaches aimed at producing goods/ products (sustainable production of food, energy, biomaterials, bioactive substances) starting from marine organisms. These technologies known as "blue biotechnology" provide an important contribution to the growth of the "Bioeconomy" and are playing an increasingly important role in the protection/restoration and management of marine ecosystems. The course includes lectures (5 credits) and laboratory/field activities (1 credit).