Invertebrate Zoology

Overview

A lot of these microscopic organisms are found in water – aquatic habitats like ponds, rivers, lakes and the ocean. This is where they feed on algae and organic detritus. They play an important role in the carbon cycle and the recycling of organic matter.

The majority of insects have an exoskeleton which is, a lot of the time, comprised of chiton, and this helps towards the protection of the internal systems as well as provides attachments for muscles. Insects are approximately 0.2 to 20mm in size. Many insects have wings to fly, or wing like structures at some stage of their life, but not all species. Flight in insects is thought to be twice as efficient as the flight of birds.

Who is this online Invertebrate Zoology course at Warnborough College for?

• Students of Biology

• Farmers, Gardeners, Pest Controllers

• Environmental managers

• Anyone working in human health, veterinary care

• Anyone else with an interest in or passion for invertebrate animals

Course Aims

• Describe the scope and nature of invertebrate animals; including similarities and differences between different groups of invertebrates

• Describe and compare the structure and function of animals that cannot be seen readily with the naked eye

• Describe and compare the structure and function of a variety of different worms and worm like animals

• Describe and compare the structure and function of a variety of different sponges, corals and anemones

• Describe and compare the structure and function of a variety of different molluscs and echinoderms

• Describe and compare the structure and function of a variety of different arthropods

• Explain the significance of arthropods to man

• Describe and compare the structure and function of a variety of different insects

• Explain the significance of insects to man