Radford University Registrar

BIOLOGY 464
VERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY

  1. Catalog Entry

Biology 464. Vertebrate Zoology
Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory (4).

Prerequisite: 8 credits in Biology

An introduction to vertebrate zoology including an examination of origin; class characteristics; evolution; and adaptations of body form, locomotion, feeding, protective, spacing, social, reproductive, activity cycles, and special adaptations for various types of habitats. Emphasis on collection, preservation, and identification of vertebrates.

  1. Detailed Description of Content of Course

1. Species Concept
2. Origin of Chordates
3. Class characteristics
4. Vertebrate Adaptations

a. Body form and locomotion
b. Feeding adaptations
c. Protective adaptations
d. Spacing adaptations
e. Social behavior
f. Reproduction
g. Activity cycles
h. Adaptations for avoiding extreme conditions

5. Zoogeography

  1. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The lectures will present information regarding the classification, evolution, and adaptations of vertebrates. The laboratory will provide an opportunity for the students to learn how to use taxonomic keys and to be able to identify local vertebrates. The students will also have an opportunity to learn how to capture and preserve vertebrates for museum collections. The students will also carry out a research project. These projects may involve independent research or library research. Reports on these projects will be either written or oral or both. The written reports may either take the form of a long paper or several shorter computer interactive multimedia reports.

  1. Goals and Objectives of the Course

On completing this course students should be able to:

1. Use taxonomic keys for vertebrates.
2. Identify local vertebrates.
3. Find sources of information and resources in vertebrate zoology.
4. Collect, preserve and use museum specimens.
5. Use computers for communication.

  1. Assessment Measures

Midterm and final lecture examinations will test knowledge of terms and concepts of vertebrate zoology. Laboratory examinations will test ability to use keys and identify local vertebrates. Research reports will be written using multimedia computer technology.

  1. Other Course Information

None

  1. Review and Approval

DATE ACTION REVIEWED BY
September 2001 Dr. Charles M. Neal, Chair