654-201 Invertebrate Structure and Function

Formerly known as 654-201 Animal Diversity.

Experiments involving the use of animals are an essential part of this subject; exemption is not possible.

Biology 650-141 and 650-142; or 650-131 and 650-132 (prior to 2004: biology 600-141 and 600-142; or 600-131 and 600-132).

Upon completion of this subject students should have:

• an appreciation of the range and diversity of the main groups of invertebrate animals;

• the relation between structure and function in invertebrate animals; and

• an understanding of current views about the phylogenetic relationships between the groups.

Structural, physiological, behavioural and evolutionary aspects of the biology of invertebrate groups are covered. The practical component will cover the taxonomy and morphology of the major invertebrate groups. Students should develop the ability to recognise and classify the main groups of invertebrate organisms and also an understanding of their morphological, physiological and behavioural characteristics.

This subject builds upon generic skills developed in first-year subjects, including an ability to approach and assimilate new knowledge and an ability to use that knowledge to evaluate theories and communicate ideas. Students should also learn how to observe critically and to use the results of their observations to pose and answer theoretical questions and to solve practical problems. They should master the terminology of a scientific field and gain experience in using that mastery to access an established body of scientific literature and material. Thus they should develop the ability to critically evaluate questions and issues in that scientific field.

Assessment of laboratory notebooks and excursion reports totalling up to 1000 words (15%), additional essay work (10%) and progress tests (5%) due during the semester; a 2-hour written examination in the examination period (40%); a 2-hour practical examination in the examination period (30%).