Zoology (ZO)
This course is designed to explore the relationship humans share with other animals and nature. We will study the early history of animal domestication and the influence of animals on human culture and religion. We will also explore our relationships to animals as pets, food, research subjects, and wildlife. All subjects will be covered through interaction with quest speaker, assigned readings, case studies, and class discussion.
GEP Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Typically offered in Fall and Summer
Roles of physical laws, environmental challenges, and evolutionary history in shaping animal structure and function. Selected examples from invertebrates and vertebrates. Laboratory in anatomy and physiology, hypothesis generation and testing and data analysis and presentation.
Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 183
Typically offered in Fall only
A comprehensive survey of the behavior, evolution, and ecology of nonhuman primates. Special emphasis will be placed in the evolution of cognitive abilities, social systems, and behavioral patterns that are unique to primates, including the evolution of language. Topics include primate taxonomy, evolution of the extant primates, geographic distribution, social behavior, reproductive behavior and strategies, parental behavior, communication, and cognitive. Classes will consist of interactive lectures, films, and class discussions.
Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 181 & BIO 183, and one of the following courses: ANT 251, BIO 212, BIO 240, BIO 245, BIO 250, BIO/PB 330, BIO 350, BIO/PB 360, BIO 410 , BIO 422, BIO 424, or BIO 488
Typically offered in Spring only
This course serves to introduce interested students to historical and current captive animal conservation efforts. We will discuss in detail a variety of issues essential to the management of wild animals in a captive setting including ethics, nutrition, reproduction, behavior, and population management.
Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 181 and one of the following (BIO 140 or 250 or 260 or 350 or NTR 301 or ANS 150 or 205 or GN 311)
Typically offered in Spring only
This laboratory course serves to introduce interested students to today's captive animal conservation efforts from the perspective of NC facilities on the front lines. Through the lens of these nearby institutions, we will investigate in detail a variety of factors essential to the management of wild animals in a captive setting. We will take topics (history, population management, genetics, nutrition, education, conservation) from the lecture course and expand them as we focus on challenges unique to these local captive facilities. While some activities will take place on campus, a number of off-campus field trips are required, including one 3-day laboratory at North Carolina Zoo. We will return to campus most days within the scheduled time frame, however students should plan for the possibility that labs may go overtime on some occasions.
Typically offered in Spring only
Phylogenetic history and adaptive radiation of animals; contrast of environmental determinants of biodiversity in tropical and polar regions; modern approaches to phylogeny; role of humans in influencing biodiversity. Students may not receive credit for both ZO 350 and BIO 140 or ZO 402.
Prerequisite: A grade of C- or better in BIO 181 and sophomore standing. Credit is not allowed for both ZO 350 and ZO 402/
Typically offered in Spring only
Over 90% of all animals are invertebrates, and many invertebrate species have proven extremely useful in medical and research applications. This course will survey invertebrate groups or clades (excluding the Protista), and will emphasize their functional biology, phylogeny, ecology, behavior, and use as models in research. Lab will emphasize an experimental approach and will involve work primarily with live material. Students may not receive credit for both ZO 402 and ZO 350.
Prerequisite: A grade of C- or better in BIO 181 and BIO 183. Credit is not allowed for both ZO 402 and ZO 350.
Typically offered in Fall only
Studies in animal behavior in vertebrates and invertebrates, focusing on the mechanisms and evolution of animal behavior. Topics include neural, hormonal, and genetic bases of behavior; foraging; anti-predator defenses; mating systems and sexual selection; social behavior; communication; parental care; territoriality and habitat selection.
Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 181and BIO 183
Typically offered in Fall and Summer
Topical problems in zoology. BIO 486 provides a challenging opportunity for students to integrate and apply knowledge and skills gained from their major studies. Emphasis will be placed on collaborative learning and effective, professional communication. Topics and instructors will vary from semester to semester. Priority will initially be given to seniors in the SZO curriculum; other students with the necessary prerequisites will be admitted on a space available basis.
Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 250, BIO/PB 360, and one of the following: BIO 350 or BIO 402/403 or GN 311 or ST 311.
Typically offered in Fall and Spring
The morphology, taxonomy, biology and control of the arthropod parasites and disease vectors of man and animals. The ecology and behavior of vectors in relation to disease transmission and control.
Prerequisite: ENT 425 and ZO 315
Typically offered in Spring only
Offered in Even Years