Vertebrate Biology

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This biodiversity lecture (30404) and laboratory (31404) course will explore the biology of vertebrates, including their evolution, ecology, diversity, biogeography, systematics, morphology, physiology, behavior, and conservation. Lectures will cover major evolutionary trends in the structure, function, and diversity of vertebrates as well as the interrelationships among vertebrate groups. Laboratory will include detailed comparative study of representative vertebrates, survey of morphological diversity across many groups, and connections to cutting-edge research topics. There will also be multiple field trips, such as visiting the Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum in Chicago, the Potawatomi Zoo, bird watching, and herping!