About This Course

This course explores the diversity of invertebrate animals (e.g., sponges, jellyfish, flatworms, molluscs, annelids, nematodes, arthropods, and echinoderms), focusing on the special attributes and biological requirements of different groups, how they function in their natural environments, and what makes each group vulnerable to human-based exploitation. Labs emphasize recognition of major groups, and use living organisms where possible, but involve no invasive procedures.