BIO 3050 - Comparative Anatomy and Physiology I

Credits: 4

A study of the evolution and mechanisms of animal body functions from genes to organ systems to the whole organism interacting with its environment. Course goals include fostering greater appreciation for the universal functions and principles shared by all animals while also considering the diversity of form & function (i.e., understanding the key differences across animal phyla, classes, orders, etc., with particular emphasis on vertebrates). Focus is placed largely on animal nervous and endocrine systems as mechanisms of regulating physiologic function relative to environmental needs, and compared to that of human beings. Laboratory will consist of comparative anatomical dissections, physiological experimentation, and critical reviews (writing and discussion) of scientific literature relevant to the discipline.
Prerequisite(s): BIO 1027 or BIO 1025, BIO 1028, or consent of instructor.
Corequisite(s): BIO 3050L
3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab