300098 VO Animal Anatomy , Biology and Evolution (2012S)

This course provides an overview of the entire animal kingdom and thus covers the enormous variability of animals and their life habits. The course approach is based on the characteristic body plans combined with morphological and ontogenetic perspectives. It also introduces ecological and ethological aspects. The foundation is the discussion of animal phyla, including a brief examination of the controversial discussions surrounding phylogenetic systematics (Protostomia - Deuterostomia; Schizocoelia - Pseudocoelia - Coelomata; etc.). A primary focus is on those terms that are crucial for the study of relationships (primary - secondary body cavity, mixocoel; protonephridia - metanephridia; trochophore larva) and on the effect of various life habits (parasitism, plankton, etc.) on the basic body plans.