Chemische Ökologie von Insekten

What it is about

In this module you will learn methods and applications of chemical ecology using insects as an example. You will acquire practical skills in extraction procedures as well as in the use and evaluation of chromatographic methods (GC-MS, HPLC) and apply this knowledge in a two-week laboratory internship and behavioral experiments.

What you will be able to do

• Apply fundamental methods of chemical ecology
• Selective extraction of important signaling molecules from insects (e.g. pheromones)
• Operation and use of technical equipment such as GC-MS and HPLC
• Evaluation and interpretation of chromatograms
• Application of the obtained insect chemistry in behavioral experiments
• Statistical analysis and graphical presentation of results

What the module consists of

• VorlesungDelivery of the necessary foundational knowledge, history and methods of analytical chemical ecology; discussion and preparation for the practical course
• Laborpraktikum (2 Wochen)Application of methods for determining chemical profiles of insects; practice with equipment and analysis methods

Teaching method

• VorlesungExplanation of theory, method comparison, and preparation for practical applications
• LaborpraktikumPractical application of the learned methods and operation of equipment as well as data collection
• Selbststudium und FachliteraturarbeitDeepening of content and substantive engagement
• Demonstration an GerätenPractical introduction to the use and operation of analytical instruments
• Grafische Darstellung und statistische AuswertungDocumentation and evaluation of the results