Of the 20 major animal phyla, 19 deal with invertebrates. This course examines the systematics, evolution and diversity of “the small things that matter” – and the large ones. It looks at the origin of life in the sea and the evolutionary patterns suggested by marine and terrestrial fossil material. The focus is on the diversity of invertebrates in a range of environments and the adaptations they have to vastly different conditions. Fieldwork will give students a solid grounding in the marine and terrestrial invertebrate fauna of south-eastern Australia.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Describe the variety of invertebrate organisms and explain their evolutionary origin and diversification.
2. Investigate invertebrates in laboratory and field conditions, and identify major taxonomic groups.
3. Understand the requirements for collection and short-term maintenance of invertebrate species for photographic and scientific observation.
4. Understand and communicate the major evolutionary innovations in invertebrate groups, and describe the functional significance of associated morphologies and behaviours.

Assessment will be based on:

• Field report (25%)
• Essay (20%)
• Mid term test (approximately 25%)
• Final exam (approximately 30%)

60 contact hours,  50 non-contact hours and a weekend field trip to Kioloa during 8-10 March.

Prerequisite:  BIOL1009

Incompatible with BIOL2112

An understanding of the differences between plant and animal forms and cell structure.

None. However the first year text, Campbell, Reece and Meyers: Biology 8th Edition Australian Version will be a valuable reference.

Field Trip: As an indication, the cost to students for this field trip will be about $120.