Course Description
The student will make a comparative study of animal life from the protozoans through the chordates. Morphological, physiological, ecological, and evolutionary relationships will be stressed. Laboratory work will focus on classification and dissection of representative species.
Prerequisite(s)
BIOL 1514 - Must be completed prior to taking this course.
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify and describe the functions of the animal tissues and organs as observed in microscope slides and dissected specimens.
- List with correct spellings the major phyla--plus their class--and some minor phyla of the animal kingdom as presented by the instructor. In some phyla, certain orders will also be studied.
- For each taxon studied, identify representative examples, list distinguishing characteristics, general habitat, economic importance and approximate number of described species.
- Learn to use classification keys to identify specimens.
- As given in class, describe the phylogenetic evolution of the animal kingdom.
- For each of the major phyla studied, describe and compare the basic anatomy of the following systems: a) digestive, b) circulatory, c) respiratory, d) excretory, e) nervous, and f) reproductive.
- Exhibit proficiency in the following skills: a) correct use of the microscope, b) careful dissection of lab specimens, c) careful techniques for working with live specimens, and d) preparation of accurate lab drawings (see page 1 and 2 of lab book for accepted procedure for lab drawings).