654-301 Animal Physiology: Comparative Approach

Zoology 654-202 and cell biology 606-205 or physiology 536-201, 536-202, 536-203 and 536-211; or biochemistry 521-211, 521-212, 521-221 and 521-222.

Topics to be covered include:

• physiological adaptations of animals to diverse and changing environments;

• basic physiological processes in animals, such as gas exchange; thermoregulation; circulation; water and salt balance, including excretion; and

• endocrine and neural control of physiological processes, including synaptic transmission.

Through study of this material students should develop an understanding of:

• the means by which different animals cope with environmental changes;

• the nature of physiological regulation; and

• the key roles of nerves and hormones in such regulation.

At the completion of the practical component, students should understand the design of experiments and have further developed (by first-hand experience) an insight into the collection of data that precedes the formulation of theories such as those discussed in lectures. This element will include surgical experience.

A 3-hour end-of-semester written examination; essay work of up to 3000 words in total or up to four practical assignments (not exceeding 6 pages each). An 8-hour practical examination may be prescribed if performance in practical classes is unsatisfactory.