MB5380 - Invertebrate Biology

Credit points:	03
Year:	2011
Student Contribution Band:	Band 4
Administered by:	School of Marine & Tropical Biology

Available to GDipResMeth, GDipSc, GCertSci, and MAppSc students.

This subject provides an advanced treatment of the major phyla of marine and terrestrial invertebrates. 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; patterns of evolution within the major phyla; reasons for the success of the major phyla. Students will be required to attend lectures and practicals in MB2080.

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.

Graduate Qualities

• The ability to adapt knowledge to new situations;
• The ability to think critically, to analyse and evaluate claims, evidence and arguments, and to reason and deploy evidence clearly and logically;
• The ability to find and access information using appropriate media and technologies;
• The ability to select and organise information and to communicate it accurately, cogently, coherently, creatively and ethically;
• The acquisition of coherent and disciplined sets of skills, knowledge, values and professional ethics from at least one discipline area;
• The ability to reflect on and evaluate learning, and to learn independently in a self directed manner;
• The ability to manage future career and personal development;
• The ability to read complex and demanding texts accurately, critically and insightfully;
• The ability to speak and write clearly, coherently and creatively;
• The ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences;
• The ability to lead, manage and contribute effectively to teams;
• The ability to work with people of different gender, age, ethnicity, culture, religion and political persuasion;
• The ability to work individually and independently.

Assumed Knowledge:	Students enrolling in this subject should have an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (eg biology or environmental science) or have acquired equivalent knowledge through other study. A good background in biology is essential, particularly invertebrate zoology. A basic understanding of chemistry is recommended.
Inadmissible Subject Combinations:	MB2080 ZL2005 ZL5005

Availabilities
Townsville, Internal, Study Period 2
Census Date 25-Aug-2011
Coordinator:	Mrs Janine Sheaves
Lecturers:	Mr Hugh MacIntosh, Mrs Janine Sheaves.
Contact hours:	38 hours lectures 2 hours tutorials 25 hours practicals
Assessment:	end of semester exam (40%); quizzes or tests (10%); tutorial attendance and participation (4%); practical reports (14%) & skills resume (7%) (21%); assignments (10%); seminar (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.