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Identical coursesComparative and Functional Anatomy of the Chordata (B-KUL-G0G39A)
Snoeks Jos (coordinator) | Snoeks Jos | Decru Eva (substitute) Aims
Students gain a critical understanding, in an evolutionary context, of the structure and function of a number of important anatomical structures in the Chordata. They make connections with data from other biological disciplines such as ecology and evolution, and some relevant basic principles of aero-and hydrodynamics.
During the practicum, they study a variety of macroscopic pieces, they name the different parts and explain the relationship between form, function, and evolutionary adaptations of a number of structures for various Chordata groups.
Previous knowledge
General knowledge of the higher classification and groups of vertebrates; does not require detailed knowledge of orders and their characteristics.
Is included in these courses of study
Activities
2.2 ects. Comparative and Functional Anatomy of the Chordata (B-KUL-G0G39a)
Content
- Introduction to the general classification and phylogeny of th chordate groups that are deal with, discussing some concepts and definitions.
- Comparative and functional anatomy of a number of structures in fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals (including humans) on the basis of representative species and fossils. The emphasis is on hard tissues because they are important in the system, and because they allow to involve data of fossil groups in the overview
- the integument and skin ossification: brief overview of the morphology of the soft tissues of the integument with special focus on adaptations to the environment. (mucus production in an aquatic environment versus cornification and peeling in a terrestrial environment); evolution of structure, form and function of the skin ossifications (scales and dermal bone).
- teeth: origin and formation, general terminology; overview of tooth forms in the Gnathostomata; tooth form and function for mammals; dental formula for mammals; dentition and age determination.
- the cephalic skeleton: the functional components of the cephalic skeleton, splanchnocranium, neurocranium and dermatocranium; comprehensive overview of the cephalic skeleton in the various major groups; discussion of the functions: protection, breathing, feeding, ...
- the axial skeleton: Overview of the various anatomical parts, the kinds of vertebrae and the axial skeleton for various Craniata groups (including the differentiation of the vertebrae, according to the longitudinal axis)
- the pectoral and pelvic girdles: origins and parts; evolution of form and function for the various Craniata; components and changes in relative importance; relationship between shape and way of moving
- fins and limbs; changes in structure, composition and construction of pectoral and pelvic fins; origin and evolution of the limbs in tetrapods; posture and action of the limbs
- locomotion: basic principles for moving on land (crawling, walking, running, ...), in water (swimming) and in the air (floating and flying).
Course material
Powerpoint Presentations by the lecturer
Accompanying text lecturer
Additional articles and literature
Toledo
Multimedia
Exemplary material
0.8 ects. Comparative and Functional Anatomy of the Chordata: Laboratory Sessions (B-KUL-G0G40a)
Content
- Introduction to the general classification and phylogeny of th chordate groups that are deal with, discussing some concepts and definitions.
- Comparative and functional anatomy of a number of structures in fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals (including humans) on the basis of representative species and fossils. The emphasis is on hard tissues because they are important in the system, and because they allow to involve data of fossil groups in the overview
the integument and skin ossification: brief overview of the morphology of the soft tissues of the integument with special focus on adaptations to the environment. (mucus production in an aquatic environment versus cornification and peeling in a terrestrial environment); evolution of structure, form and function of the skin ossifications (scales and dermal bone).
teeth: origin and formation, general terminology; overview of tooth forms in the Gnathostomata; tooth form and function for mammals; dental formula for mammals; dentition and age determination.
the cephalic skeleton: the functional components of the cephalic skeleton, splanchnocranium, neurocranium and dermatocranium; comprehensive overview of the cephalic skeleton in the various major groups; discussion of the functions: protection, breathing, feeding, ...
the axial skeleton: Overview of the various anatomical parts, the kinds of vertebrae and the axial skeleton for various Craniata groups (including the differentiation of the vertebrae, according to the longitudinal axis)
the pectoral and pelvic girdles: origins and parts; evolution of form and function for the various Craniata; components and changes in relative importance; relationship between shape and way of moving
fins and limbs; changes in structure, composition and construction of pectoral and pelvic fins; origin and evolution of the limbs in tetrapods; posture and action of the limbs
locomotion: basic principles for moving on land (crawling, walking, running, ...), in water (swimming) and in the air (floating and flying).
Course material
Didactic collection
Practicum notes from the lecturer
Toledo
Format: more information
The practicals follow the lectures. Before the first examination period a revision practicum is provided.
Evaluation
Evaluation: Comparative and Functional Anatomy of the Chordata (B-KUL-G2G39a)
Explanation
exam contains a theoretical part and practical exercises. Both parts of the examination are mandatory. The practical exam counts for approximately 1/5th of the mark.