Animal Anatomy and Physiology

Abstract

Animal Anatomy and Physiology introduces students to the principles of physiology and anatomy as it relates to animals, in particular mammals and birds. The integration and control of all major organ systems, including endocrine, nervous, musculoskeletal, digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal and immune will be examined, from micro to gross anatomical levels and normal physiological processes. The importance of blood, cellular communication and the principles of thermoregulation will also be covered. Homeostasis is central to this subject and the linkages between each of the organ systems and how they contribute to maintaining homeostasis, thereby allowing an animal to cope with, or thrive in, its environment is explored. Examples from a range of animal species are used to assimilate and demonstrate concepts learnt in lectures and applied in practical classes.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics: Anatomical and physiological language and terminology;What is homeostasis?From cells to body (membrane potential, chemical communication, tissues to organs);Anatomy and physiology of the following systems:Nervous systemEndocrine systemSkeletal system, including joints and bone metabolismMusclesDigestive systemCardiovascular systemRespiratory systemRenal systemBlood and its functions (including fluid movement);Body protection … For more content click the Read More button below.

This subject will cover the following topics:

Anatomical and physiological language and terminology;
What is homeostasis?
From cells to body (membrane potential, chemical communication, tissues to organs);
Anatomy and physiology of the following systems:
Nervous system
Endocrine system
Skeletal system, including joints and bone metabolism
Muscles
Digestive system
Cardiovascular system
Respiratory system
Renal system
Blood and its functions (including fluid movement);
Body protection systems with a focus on the immune system and skin; and
Regulation of body temperature.

Assessment items

1. Progress mini test

2. Practicals based post lab quiz

3. Mid session examination

4. End of session exam

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

compare and contrast the normal anatomy and physiology of various species including mammals and birds;

describe and relate the anatomy and physiology of these animals to the maintenance of homeostasis;

describe and relate the anatomy and physiology of these animals to their lifestyles and environments;

identify and explain important anatomical and physiological features of the various major organ systems; and

communicate effectively, using the specialised language of anatomy and physiology.

Assumed knowledge

Biology (either BIO100, AGR130 or Year 12 HSC or equivalent biology)

Enrolment restrictions

Restricted to students enrolled in:

Bachelor of Animal Science (Honours) Integrated Honours
Bachelor of Equine Science (with specialisation)
Bachelor of Equine Science (Business Management)
Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) Integrated Honours
Bachelor of Veterinary Technology
Bachelor of Science
Undergraduate Certificate in Science

Other students may enrol in ASC171 at the discretion of their Course Director and the Subject Coordinator.

Learning activities

Intensive School

Attendance at an intensive school enables students to develop competence in a number of laboratory skills in the anatomy and physiology laboratories, as well as encouraging face to face discussion amongst their peers and staff, and thereby ensuring that they have access to both scientific enquiry and knowledge, and the opportunity to develop through the social aspects of learning, that face to face interaction can provide. The intensive school is to allow online students to take practical classes related to animal anatomy dissections, prosections, and physiological exercises in the laboratory. These practicals will be the foundation for Assessment Task 2 and 3, which will be undertaken in the intensive school.

Duration4 days

Learning resources

Additional resources required by students

Students attending compulsory intensive schools on Charles Sturt campuses will incur costs associated with travel, accommodation and required resources.

Handbook

ASC171 - Animal Anatomy and Physiology