Farah in Italy

After our arrival in Italy, we were warmly welcomed by Professor Massimo Ponti, Dr. Eva Turicchia, and the entire research team. They kindly introduced us to the Ravenna Campus, provided a tour of the laboratories, and familiarized us with the laboratory facilities and equipment that would be used throughout our research activities.
During the first day in the laboratory, we were introduced to 3D scanning and photogrammetry techniques. We learned how to perform three-dimensional scanning on biological specimens, including a crab sample, and were also trained in capturing high-quality microscopic images of various samples using a microscope imaging system.
On the second day, we identified samples from panels with and without antifouling paint in order to observe algae and other organisms attached to the panels. The samples were examined under a microscope, and we successfully identified several organisms, including Phylum Annelida, Class Polychaeta, Family Serpulidae, as well as arthropods such as Tanaidacea.
During the third day, we continued identifying algae collected from other panels. Through careful microscopic observations and the use of identification keys, we were able to recognize several algae species, including Cladophora vagabunda, Cladophora vadorum, and several other macroalgae found on the panel surfaces.

On the fourth and fifth days, our laboratory work focused on the identification of barnacles and bryozoans collected from the settlement panels. During this session, we successfully identified one of the bryozoan species as Cryptosula pallasiana.
On the sixth day, we were introduced to sediment sample analysis. Professor Ponti demonstrated the procedures for separating sediment samples using three sieves with different mesh sizes (500 µm, 600 µm, and 1,400 µm). After sieving, we carefully sorted each sediment fraction under a microscope to search for and isolate interesting benthic organisms.
From the seventh day until the last day, we continued our laboratory activities by focusing on the identification of polychaetes collected from the sediment samples. This involved careful observation of their morphological characteristics under the microscope and comparison with available taxonomic references.
Overall, the student exchange program provided a valuable learning experience. We gained practical laboratory skills, improved our taxonomic identification ability, and learned directly from Professor Ponti, Dr. Eva Turicchia and the research team. The two weeks spent in Italy were highly meaningful and will remain an important part of my academic experience.