MB2080 - Marine and Terrestrial Invertebrate Biology

Credit points:	03
Year:	2009
Student Contribution Band:	Band 4
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 invertebrates 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.

Assumed Knowledge:	Students enrolling in this subject should have a good understanding oflLevel 1 biology, particularly zoology (eg BZ1001, ZL1001). A basic understanding of chemistry is highly recommended (eg CH1001).
Prerequisites:	ZL1001
Inadmissible Subject Combinations:	MB5380 ZL2005 ZL5005

Availabilities
Townsville, Internal, Study Period 2
Census Date 28-Aug-2009
Coordinator:	Dr Lindsay Harrington
Lecturers:	Dr Lindsay Harrington, Professor David Blair, Dr Richard Rowe.
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.