Invertebrate Biology

Catalog description

Of the nearly 1.5 million described species of animals, the vast majority are invertebrates. This course will survey the biology, evolutionary history, and relationships of invertebrate organisms from protozoa through invertebrate chordates. An emphasis will be placed on phylogenetic relationships of these organisms, in particular the adaptations and characteristics that identify them as unique groups. A formal understanding of modern phylogenetic techniques will be developed. A collection of invertebrates is required as part of the course and guided field trips will be undertaken to help assemble the collection. Approximately 15% of the course will be devoted to the uses of invertebrates in scientific study (especially Drosophila and C. elegans) and the impact of invertebrates on human life, especially as food, pollinators, disease-causing agents, disease vectors, and agricultural pests.