ANATOMIA COMPARATA ED EVOLUZIONE BIOLOGICA 4

Module ANATOMIA COMPARATA

Course objectives:The course aims to provide an in-depth overview of the anatomical and morphofunctional organisation of vertebrates, taking a comparative approach. To this end, the theoretical description of each organ system will be considered in an evolutionary context, with reference to its macro and microscopic characteristics. This theory will be reinforced by viewing anatomical material during laboratory sessions. The educational objective is to provide students with detailed morpho-functional knowledge of the subphylum Vertebrates, using basic comparative investigation concepts as a scientific methodology. 

Expected learning outcomes: knowledge and understanding of the diversity of vertebrates in a phylogenetic context, and the ability to apply knowledge of descriptive anatomy, embryology and structure function to an understanding of vertebrate evolution. Students will also develop independent judgement on the biological mechanisms that drive evolutionary/adaptive processes in animals. Students will also develop communication skills using technical and scientific terminology specific to the discipline.

Lectures and laboratories.

Knowledge of Vertebrate Systematic Zoology and Developmental Biology

Attendance is not compulsory, but strongly recommended

Introduction to the study of the organ systems of vertebrates and their evolution. Unity of the structure of the Vertebrates. - Protection. Tegument and its derivatives, structure and functions of the skin, the tegument of the fish: the importance of dermal derivatives, the tegument of tetrapods: the importance of dander. - Support. The skull: relations between cranial components and evolution; axial skeleton: the evolution of the vertebrae, appendicular skeleton. - Circulation. Evolution of the cardiovascular system of vertebrates. Functional considerations and models of blood circulation. - Excretion and reproduction. The urinary system: structure and evolution of the kidney; osmoregulation in freshwater, sea water and land vertebrates. Reproductive system: development and differentiation of the gonads. Genital ducts. - Coordination and integration. Nervous system and sense organs. The nervous system: outlines, spinal cord and peripheral nerves, the brain and its evolution, the organ of smell, the ear and the eye.  

I -Stingo et al., Anatomia Comparata. Edi. Ermes

II - Liem et al., Anatomia comparata dei Vertebrati una visione funzionale
ed evolutiva. EdiSES.
III - E. Giavini, E. Menegola, Manuale di Anatomia Comparata. EdiSES
IV - G.C.Kent, Anatomia comparata dei Vertebrati. Ed Piccin.

The final oral examination will be preceded by a preliminary written test consisting of a test with multiple-choice questions, two open-ended questions and an outline. Those who do not pass the test will be discouraged from continuing the examination.

1. Example of a multiple-choice question

What are placodes (1 correct answer):

a. Thickening of the endoderm located in the head and neck region

b) Sensory cells related to the sense organs

c) Vesicles related to the sense organs

d) Thickening of the ectoderm located in the head and neck region

2. Example of an open-ended question:

Describe the various stages of metanephros organogenesis.