BIOL 3400

Course Description

Comparative investigations of functional morphology across major vertebrate lineages.  Lectures are organized into three units; 1) evolutionary history and patterns of development, 2) integumentary, skeletal and muscular systems, and 3) sensory systems, and neural and endocrine integrations.  Topics of investigation focus on biomechanical and physiological performance of biological structures, from cells to organ systems, and on the origins and diversification of form-function complexes among vertebrates.  Lab exercises include dissections, observation of prepared specimens and other material, and modeling/simulation of biomechanical systems.  This course serves as a 3000-level lab requirement for either the B.A. or B.S. in biology.