Biology of Animals unit (KZA161)

Introduction

KZA161 Biology of Animals introduces you to the scientific study of animals. In this unit you will investigate animal diversity by exploring the evolutionary paths through increasing body complexity, with an emphasis on Australian examples. You will consider the structural and functional characteristics of each group from an evolutionary perspective, with a focus on understanding the implications for adaptation and survival. Theoretical content will introduce you to the fundamental principles underlying animal life, and provide a functional basis for understanding animals' adaptations to diverse and challenging environments. Face-to-face practical sessions will help you develop real-world skills in investigation, interpretation and laboratory techniques and the use of specific scientific equipment. The final assessment is held in the Study vacation (prior to the formal exam period) and students are required to attend in person. There is no final exam for this unit but you must attend an in-person final assessment in week 13. This is a core unit in the Zoology and Ecology majors in the Bachelor of Science, and in the Marine Biology major in the Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science.

 

Summary

Unit name	Biology of Animals
Unit code	KZA161
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences
Discipline	Biological Sciences
Coordinator	Associate Professor Ashley Edwards
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Introductory

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

• Describe principles that underpin diversification and classification in the animal kingdom.
• Explain how relationships between morphological structures and their associated functions influence animal survival.
• Interpret biological specimens to describe evolutionary and environmental adaptations.
• Adhere to safety protocols and procedures when undertaking laboratory activities

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Mutual Exclusions

You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:

KZA151 AND KZA150 AND JFA101 AND JFA102

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	weekly prerecorded content (as several short videos each week) and a combined  3-hr face to face practorial + laboratory session per week.
Assessment	In class Scientific Writing Task (10%)|In class written and practical activity (10%)|End of semester test semester practical and theory assessment (40%)|Mid semester practical and theory assessment (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Campbell Biology by Urry et al (old editions and second hand copies are a good option).

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.