MB2080 - Marine Invertebrate Biology

Credit points:	03
Year:	2008
Student Contribution Band:	Band 2
Administered by:	School of Marine & Tropical Biology

This subject provides an overview of the major phyla of invertebrate animals, with a focus on marine groups. Emphasis will be placed on the evolution and physical diversity of the phyla and their main biological and life-history features. Topics include phylogenetic relationships among the metazoans; biodiversity represented by invertebtrates and especially those living in the oceans; patterns of evolution within the major phyla; reasons for the success of the major phyla.

Learning Outcomes

• To acquire knowledge of the names and distinguishing features of all major invertebrate phyla. For some phyla, more detailed knowledge is expected of classification, anatomy and life histories;
• To acquire knowledge of the ways these phyla might be grouped in a larger phylogenetic scheme;
• To appreciate invertebrate biodiversity, past and present;
• To appreciate the diversity of life histories, habitats and biology among the phyla;
• To learn methods for handling, examining and preparing typical invertebrates.

Prerequisites:	ZL1001 (MB2050 OR ZL2005 RECOMMENDED)
Inadmissible Subject Combinations:	MB5380 and ZL2005 and ZL5005

Availabilities
Townsville, Internal, Study Period 2
Census Date 05-Sep-2008
Coordinator:	Professor David Blair
Lecturer:	Dr Lindsay Harrington.
Contact hours:	36 hours lectures 26 hours practicals
Assessment:	end of semester exam (60%); quizzes or tests (25%); essays (15%).

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.