Invertebrate Zoology

Catalog description

A survey of the most prominent branches of the phylogenetic tree. Working from the protozoans to the chordates, this course explores evolution, systematics, physiology, morphology, life history, ecology and behavior of select species. This phylogenetic context will provide a unique opportunity to understand the problems common to all life and how evolution has solved them. Labs will include studying the body plans of major phylogenetic groups to understand how structure and function are interlinked. Course coverage includes many groups important to medicine (e.g. many parasitic organisms) as well as to other disciplines such as geology, ecology, paleontology and neuroscience. 3 lecture and one 2-hour lab periods. Course fee: $30. Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): Prerequisite or may be taken concurrently: BIOL 288 or permission of instructor. Prerequisite(s): None. Corequisite(s): None.