551-0435-00L  Systematic Biology: Zoology

SemesterAutumn Semester 2016
LecturersO. Y. Martin, M. Greeff
Periodicityyearly recurring course
Language of instructionGerman


AbstractLecture: The lecture provides an overview of animal diversity. Using key selected groups, phylogenetic, morphological and ecological aspects are addressed. Two priority topics are the arthropods and the vertebrates (including vertebrate fauna of Switzerland).

Practical: Knowledge of selected animal groups and their characteristics (supplementing the lecture) and of the basic methods.
ObjectiveLecture: The systematic classification of animals and the characteristics of the most important animal groups, basic animal body plans.

Practical: Examples of selected animal groups and their characteristics; acquire the relevant skills: simple preparations, dissection, microscopy, drawing, protocols.
ContentLecture: Body plans, characteristics, diversity and phylogenetic position of the main groups of Protozoa, Invertebrates, and Vertebrates, with a special focus on Arthropods and Vertebrates (including vertebrate fauna of Switzerland).

Practical: Macroscopic and microscopic study of selected Protozoa, Invertebrates (especially insects) and Vertebrates: morphology and anatomy; behaviour, mainly locomotion, feeding, and reproduction.
Lecture notesA script for the course will be sold in the lecture, and additional material will be handed out (particularly in the practical).
LiteratureNo further literature required, the script contains suggestions for further reading.