BL2308 Vertebrate Zoology
(BL2308 online module handbook version 89)
image: A group of meerkats (Suricata suricatta), one of the most cooperative vertebrates with a complex social structure and highly developed parental care (AnetaPics/Shutterstock)†
This module will explore the diversity of vertebrate animals, beginning with the closest relatives of vertebrates and the evolutionary origins of the group. A detailed look at the defining characteristics of the body plans and lifestyles of the key vertebrate groups will illustrate how they carry out basic animal functions in similar or different ways. This will be put in an evolutionary context to reveal the patterns and trends in the vertebrates as a whole, while also highlighting current phylogenetic controversies. The module will then explore some common themes across the key groups, starting with the developmental biology of some vertebrate model systems and the lessons we can learn from these. We will also see how the highly developed brains of vertebrates have allowed the evolution of astonishing sensory capacities and of complex behaviours, and how these are different (or not) from invertebrates.
*Credits: 15*
Semester: 2†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:Before taking this module you must pass BL1101 and pass BL1102*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL2308: Assessment
2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL2308: Contributing Staff †
BL2308: Learning Outcomes †
Students completing module BL2308 successfully should be able to:
- Demonstrate an overview of vertebrate phylogeny
- Appreciate the controversies involved in phylogenetic reconstruction
- Identify the defining features of the key vertebrate groups
- Appreciate how representatives from the key vertebrate groups carry out basic animal functions in similar or different ways
- Discuss sensory and behavioural capacities of vertebrates
- Discuss the use of vertebrates in research and the ethical implications
BL2308: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
- Biological drawing and photography
- Purpose and practice of dissection
- Stereomicroscopy
Transferable Skills
- Group discussion - leading
- Group discussion - participating
- Long group presentation on given topic (>15 min)
- Short informal presentation (using PowerPoint or not)
- "Short" practical write-up (e.g. completed worksheet)
- Critically evaluating sources/information
- Finding information on the web
- Finding literature
- Referencing
- Searching databases
- Sourcing figures/tables
- Ethical considerations
- Peer assessment
- Problem-solving questions
- Data analysis
- Data presentation
- Descriptive statistics
- Produce graphs/figures
- Produce tables
- Use Excel
- Use R or R Studio
- Lab or field notebook
- Generate class dataset
- Managing a team
- Organising group work
- Working in pairs/small groups
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/
