Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. 4 credits, 6 contact hours

Catalog description

Prerequisites: ( BIOL 201 and BIOL 202 or R120 201 and R120 202 ) and ( BIOL 205 and BIOL 206 or R120 205 and R120 206) and ( PHYS 102 and PHYS 102A , or PHYS 111 and PHYS 111A ), with a grade of C or better. This course builds upon foundational knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and evolution to explore the morphological evolution of vertebrates within the context of the functional interrelationships of organs and the changing environments to which vertebrates have adapted. Through an advanced investigation into the mechanics of how living creatures interact with their immediate physical world, we examine how the forms and activities of animals reflect the materials available to evolution and consider rules for structural design under environmental forces. In addition to the prerequisites, it is recommended that a student have at least two of the following courses: Evolution ( BIOL 222 ); Mammalian Physiology ( BIOL 340 ); Developmental Biology ( BIOL 342 ); Genetics ( BIOL 352 ).