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651-4164-00L 3 Credits MSC D-ERDW
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Introduction to Palaeontology (University of Zurich)

No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH as an incoming student UZH Module Code: BIO148 Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
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Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:33:31

Abstract

This module provides the basis to understand the deep time dimension of evolution in the context of the permanent and reciprocal interactions between life and environment.

Objective

By the end of this module students should be able to - name approaches and analytical tools for identifying fossils species, inclusive of ontogeny and intraspecific variation - establish phylogenetic models - extract the time component embedded in the fossil record and biogeographic distributions - explore and describe ecological patterns and processes involved in the generation of species diversity from local (e.g. basin) to global scales at times scales of 104 years and higher up. - explain how changing environments shape phylogenies and diversity, and reciprocally how life modifies some physical and chemical parameters of the environment.

Content

The reconstruction of macroevolutionary patterns in time and space is only accessible from the fossil record. Emphasis will be put on the nature and the structure of the whole range of relevant categories of data and on the methods utilized for their analyses (ontogenetic development and intraspecific variation, species identification, phylogeny, biochronology, community analysis, macroecology). The role of extreme physical and chemical stresses (e.g. abrupt climate changes, massive volcanism) in shaping evolutionary patterns will be addressed with examples derived from mass extinctions. The relations between patterns and processes at these different hierarchical levels will be discussed.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Registration modalities, date and venue of this performance assessment are specified solely by the UZH.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Introduction to Palaeontology (University of Zurich)
**Kurs an der Universität Zürich** Nächste Durchführung in FS 2025
No time listed 2 h weekly

Offered In

  • Erdwissenschaften Master
    • Wahlfächer (Den Studierenden steht - in Absprache mit den zuständigen MSc-Kommission - das gesamte Lehrangebot der ETH Zürich und der Universität Zürich zur Auswahl offen.)