BENA2031 Introduction to biota (4 cr)

The course introduces to the structure, identification and nomenclature of organisms through lectures and exercises. The structural features of plants, invertebrates and vertebrates are studied in practical exercises. In addition, parasites of vertebrate animals and their life cycles will be introduced. The course includes practical identification work in the laboratory and in the field, and demonstrations of the use of genetic material in the identification of organisms. In addition, students will practice the preparation of organisms and the use of microscopes.

After completing the course, the student will be able to

- describe the basis of the classification of organisms and the importance of classification.

- describe the structural features of the main organism groups and their importance in the function of organisms.

- identify and name the main domestic groups of organisms and their example species.

- find and identify the main structural features of organisms and use of these features in identification.

- describe the potential of using genetic material in the identification and classification of organisms.

- handle samples of organisms and use microscopes and identification keys independently in their identification.

Course materials are shared in Moodle.