Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology

Vertebrate animals represent a diverse and ecologically important component of life on earth. They can be found in virtually every ecosystem from the deep ocean to the tops of our highest mountains and play important roles in ecosystem functions at scales small and large. In this program we will examine the comparative anatomy and physiology of modern vertebrate groups including fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Our focus will be on musculo-skeletal systems, the cardiovascular and respiratory system, reproductive systems and how vertebrates deal with diseases and parasites. This program will investigate the relationship between form, function, and species interactions to gain a deeper understanding evolutionary processes and the role of ecology as the interface for evolutionary change.

Weekly activities will include lectures, labs, and workshops. Labs will use specimens from Evergreen's natural history collection to examine key characteristics of taxonomic groups, anatomy, functional morphology and the evolutionary history evident in the structure of modern vertebrates. Some of these labs will include dissections to aid students in learning internal anatomy. Workshops will include case studies and seminars on papers from the primary scientific literature. Students will be expected to contribute actively to the learning community and will be evaluated on regular homework assignments, lab reports, exams, and workshop participation. Students completing the program will gain a solid understanding of evolutionary processes as they relate to vertebrates, animal ecology, and comparative anatomy and physiology.

Anticipated Credit Equivalencies (all upper division eligible):

6 - Comparative Anatomy and Physiology

5 - Vertebrate Functional Morphology

5 - Evolutionary Biology