Introduction to zoology

Zoology is the scientific study of animals, encompassing their behavior, physiology, classification, and distribution. This field plays a crucial role in understanding the complexities of animal life and how species interact with their environments.

Dr. Gavin Stewart (module coordinator: gavin.stewart@ucd.ie)

Dr. John Finarelli

Associate prof. Katharina Wollenberg-Valero

• Physiological systems

  e.g digestive, excretion

• Anatomical systems

  e.g dissection, dental

Assessment

• MCQ and two essay questions (four different questions) - 50%

• Continuous assessment:

  • Practical exam (before mid-semester break) - 30%

  • Practical (basic) data analysis reports - 20%

What is an animal?

‘Animals are multicellular, heterotrophic eukaryotes with tissues that develop from embryonic layers.’ Campbell biology, chapter 32

• Modern zoology is wide-ranging subject that deals with all aspects of animals from genetics and cell biology to ecology and behaviour. This module focuses on the physiological systems that underpin how animals respond to challenges in their environment. The anatomical structure and fuction of animals will be placed in the context of millions of years of evolution. Finally closesly linked laboratory sessions will use experiments and dissections to understand animal biology from the inside out.

• The huge variety of animal shapes and body plans have been shaped by natural selection active over evolutionary time.

• Convergent evolution results in similar adaptions in the same environmental challenge.