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MB2080 - Invertebrate Biology

Credit points: 3
Year: 2023
Student Contribution Band: Band 2
Administered by: College of Science and Engineering

This subject provides an overview 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; 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.

Subject Assessment

  • Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (45%) - Individual
  • Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (30%) - Individual
  • Oral > Presentation 1 - (10%) - Individual
  • Written > Brief - (15%) - Individual.
Assumed
Knowledge:
Students enrolling in this subject should have a good understanding of Level 1 organismal biology and should have completed BS1007(TSV) or BZ1006(CNS) or equivalent.
Prerequisites: BZ1004 OR AG1004 OR BZ1006 OR BZ1007 OR BS1007
Inadmissible
Subject
Combinations:
MB5380 ZL2005 ZL5005

Availabilities

Townsville, Study Period 2, Internal
Census Date 24-Aug-2023
Coordinator: Professor David Bourne
Lecturers: Professor Michael Kingsford, Professor Jodie Rummer, Professor David Bourne, Dr Janine Sheaves, Dr Orpha Bellwood, Professor Jan Strugnell.
Workload expectations:

The student workload for this 3 credit point subject is approximately 130 hours.

  • 26 hours lectures
  • 22 hours workshops
  • assessment and self-directed study

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.