Zoology

Included Index

Part 1 Science, the cell and molecular biology: zoology - it's place in science; the chemical basis of animal life; cells, tissues, organs and organ systems of animals; energy and enzymes - life's driving and controlling forces; how animals harvest energy stored in nutrients. Part 2 The continuity of animal life: cell division; inheritance patterns; chromosomes and gene linkages; molecular genetics - ultimate cellular control; descriptive embryology. Part 3 Evolution: evolution - an historical perspective; evolution and gene frequencies. Part 4 Behaviour and ecology: animal behaviour; ecology I - individuals and populations; ecology II - communities and ecosystems. Part 5 Animallike protists and animalia: animal classification; phylogency and organization; animallike protists - the protozoa; multicellular and tissue levels of organization; the triploblastic, aceolomate body plan; the pseudoceolomate body plan - aschelminths; molluscan success; annelida -the metameric body form; the arthropods - blueprint for success; the hexapods and myriapods - terrestrial triumphs; the echinoderms; hermichordata and invertebrate chordates; the fishes - vertebrate success in water; amphibians - the first terrestrial vertebrates; reptiles - the first amniotes; birds - feathers, flight and endothermy; mammals - specialized teeth, endothermy, hair and viviparity. Part 6 Form and function: a comparative perspective - protection, support and movement; communication I - nerves; communication II - senses; communication III - the endocrine system and chemical messengers; circulation, immunity and gas exchange; temperature and body fluid regulation; reproduction and development.

Emphasizing the basic concepts of zoology at the most accessible level, this work is intended for students with no background in the sciences. Learning aids include critical thinking questions, key terms, summaries and a glossary. Wildlife Alert boxes include conservation and ecology notes