BIOL 401 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy

Units: 5

Comparison of similarities and differences among vertebrate groups on the basis of structure and function. Emphasis will be placed on the evolution and vertebrate structures, new roles for derived and ancestral characters, adaptation of new functions, relationship to life style, life history and evolutionary phylogeny. A major goal of this course is to generate a greater understanding of the evolutionary processes and concomitant structural changes that have occurred among vertebrates including humans. Laboratory study includes dissection, and analysis of organ systems, and evolutionary innovations among representative vertebrates.
Three hours of lecture. One hour of discussion. Three hours of laboratory.

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 210 , BIOL 211 , and BIOL 212 , or enrollment in the Biological Sciences graduate program.