Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Course on Species of Marine Fauna and Flora
Through this comprehensive course, learn to identify, classify, and understand marine biodiversity, from planktonic microorganisms to large mammals. Explore the unique adaptations of each species to its environment and its…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts7 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Course on Species of Marine Fauna and Flora?
In the Marine Fauna and Flora Species course you will discover
Through this comprehensive course, learn to identify, classify, and understand marine biodiversity, from planktonic microorganisms to large mammals. Explore the unique adaptations of each species to its environment and its fundamental role in ocean ecosystems. Delve into the current threats these species face, such as pollution and climate change, and discover the most effective conservation strategies. This course will provide you with a solid foundation to contribute to the protection of our oceans.
Differential Advantages
- Species Identification: Learn to recognize the main species of marine fauna and flora.
- Marine Ecosystems: Understand the interdependence between species and their environment.
- Marine Conservation: Discover strategies to protect ocean biodiversity.
- Human Impact: Analyze the threats faced by marine species.
- Flexibility: Online course with access to materials and experts in the field.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
10-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Accurate Identification: Learn to recognize the main species of marine fauna and flora, including key characteristics and habitats.
- Marine Conservation: Discover the importance of marine biodiversity and strategies for its conservation and protection.
- Environmental Impact: Analyze the impacts of human activity on marine ecosystems and possible solutions.
- Legislation: Familiarize yourself with marine environmental legislation and regulations relevant to the sustainable management of resources.
- Practical Applications: Acquire applicable knowledge in research, environmental management, ecotourism, and education.
- Expand your knowledge and contribute to the preservation of our oceans with this comprehensive course.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Applied Marine Taxonomy, Scientific Nomenclature and Identification Principles in Field
- Modern biological classification: domains, kingdoms and marine lineages with taxonomic key reading
- Nomenclature and basic rules: Binomials, authorship, synonyms and updating of accepted names
- Comparative morphology for identification: diagnostic traits, intraspecific variation and dimorphism
- Identification methods: guides, dichotomous keys, macro photography and character registration
- Frequent Errors: Cryptic Species, Life Stage Confusions, and Observation Bias
02
Marine flora and primary producers: phytoplankton, macroalgae and marine phanerogams
- Phytoplankton: Main Groups, Seasonal Dynamics, Blooms and Ecological Relevance
- Macroalgae: green, brown and red with identification criteria and functional ecology
- Marine prairie meadows - structure, ecosystem services and signs of environmental stress
- Habitats and zonation: intertidal, subtidal, rocky and sandy bottoms with distribution patterns
- Sampling and evaluation: transects, quadrants, coverage, biomass and good non-destructive practices
03
Marine invertebrates: diversity, ecosystem function and recognition of key groups
- Poriferous and cnidarian: sponges, anemones, corals and jellyfish with distinctive features
- Molluscs: bivalves, gastropods and cephalopods with identification by shell, radula and external anatomy
- Crustaceans: decapods, copepods and barnacles with differentiation criteria and life cycle
- Echinoderms: Stars, sea urchins and sea cucumbers with habitat health indicators
- Annelids and other groups: polychaetes, bryozoans and tunicates with bio-indicator relevance
04
Marine fishes: basic ichthyology, ecology, identification and species of fisheries interest
- External anatomy and morphology: fins, scales, side lines and colour patterns
- Main groups: Bone and cartilaginous fish with practical identification by representative families
- Habitats and behaviour: Pelagic, demersal and reef with patterns of aggregation and migration
- Life Cycles: Reproduction, Larvae, Recruitment and Growth with Fisheries Management Implications
- Field identification: quick keys, diagnostic photos, and ethical management of bycatch
05
Biodiversity, Invasive Species, Ecological Indicators and Capstone Project for Species Catalog
- Marine biogeography: regions, endemisms, connectivity and factors that explain distributions
- Invasive species: routes of entry, early detection, impacts and biosecurity measures
- Bioindicators and environmental quality: sensitive/tolerant species, indexes and reading of communities
- Modern Methods: Edna, Photogrammetry, Citizen Science and Observation Validation
- Data management: standards, repositories, updated taxonomy and technical data sheets
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Marine biologists and biology students who wish to deepen their knowledge of marine biodiversity and its conservation.Environmental management professionals who need to understand key species identification for environmental impact assessment and sustainable project planning.Science educators and communicators seeking up-to-date and educational resources to communicate the importance of marine
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
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Student Reviews
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Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Identify and classify the main marine species
- 02Understanding the ecological interdependence between marine species
- 03Assess the impact of human activity on marine ecosystems
- 04Apply conservation and restoration techniques to degraded marine habitats
- 05Develop sustainable marine resource management strategies
- 06Analyze the distribution and abundance of marine populations
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Marine Conservation Technician: Implementation of protection and recovery programs for marine species and habitats.
02Marine Biologist: Study of the ecology, behavior, and physiology of marine fauna and flora.
03Marine Resource Manager: Sustainable planning and management of marine natural resources.
04Marine Environmental Consultant: Environmental impact assessment of coastal and marine projects.
05Marine Environmental Educator: Design and development of educational programs to raise awareness about marine conservation.
06Aquarist: Maintenance and care of marine species in aquariums and exhibit centers.
07Marine Ecotourism Guide: Leading tours and activities for the responsible observation of marine fauna and flora.
08Sustainable Fisheries Technician: Implementation of sustainable fishing practices and assessment of the status of fish stocks.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Marine fauna and flora.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Marine fauna refers to the animals that live in the ocean, while marine flora refers to the plants and algae that live in the ocean.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate Degree in Marine Biology, Environmental Sciences, Oceanography or related field; or accredited professional experience in marine conservation, research, or natural resource management.Specific Knowledge:Basic knowledge of taxonomy, marine ecology, and environmental legislation related to marine fauna and flora.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree (if applicable), certificate of relevant courses (if applicable), ID/Passport, letter of motivation.Additional Requirements (depending on focus):For field activities:
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Frequently Asked Questions
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