MB3240:03
Molluscan Biology
Townsville
26 lectures, 6 tutorials, 36 hours practicals, 24 hours fieldwork. First semester.
Staff: Dr J Collins, others to be advised.
A review of the seven major molluscan groups Apalcophora, Monoplacophora, Polyplacophora, Bivalvia, Gastropoda, Scaphopoda and Cephalopoda, to cover comparative anatomy, morphology and phylogeny. A study of the functional and adaptive biology of the main molluscan groups and how this has allowed their radiation into all major habitats. This will emphasise aspects of feeding and resource utilisation, digestion, reproduction, growth, neurobiology and behaviour. An introduction to the commercial aspects of molluscan biology covering both pest and commercial species including those of conchological value. Laboratory and field trips will emphasise the local tropical malacofauna and their habitat specialisations and be closely integrated with the lectures.
Learning Objectives:
- thorough knowledge of molluscan morphology and anatomy;
- an understanding of the adaptive radiation of molluscs;
- specific knowledge on aspects of growth, feeding, reproduction and behaviour demonstrated by local tropical molluscs;
- an appreciation of the commercial significance of molluscs.
Assessment by final examination (50%); integrated practical and field work book (40%); tutorials (10%).