Practical Course in Zoology: Study Guide - T. A. Dauda 2014

Preface

This practical guide has been written as a textbook for laboratory classes in zoology for students of higher agricultural educational institutions.

The main objective of the manual is to teach students How to work independently with both living specimens and preserved animal preparations, as well as to master essential zoological Research Methods in the field and the laboratory.

When selecting objects for laboratory sessions, the authors primarily considered two requirements: The Need for veterinary and animal science students to have a solid general foundation in zoology, and the necessity of aligning the teaching of zoology with the demands of their future profession. For these reasons, the workbook includes not only specimens of general biological interest, but also those directly relevant to practical veterinary medicine and animal husbandry.

The number of classes, as well as the quantity of specimens designated for studying each animal phylum, is provided in the manual with a certain margin, allowing the instructor flexibility in choosing lesson topics. Certain topics may be treated as optional and can be assigned for independent student study.

The material is arranged in accordance with the generally accepted Classification of the animal kingdom. The practical guide provides a general Description of the taxonomic groups outlined in the zoology curriculum for agricultural universities, the systematic position of the object under study, specific Assignments, as well as the required Materials, equipment, and methodology for completing each task.

The comparative-morphological material, which forms the core of the workbook, is examined in close connection with environmental habitats, while The Structure of Organs and Organ Systems in the studied specimens is linked directly to their Functions.

The techniques for dissecting and preparing animals are described based on previously published similar textbooks listed in the bibliography, alongside years of personal teaching experience in zoology.

The authors hope that this manual will help students master Cell/15.html">Microscopy Techniques, as well as methods of dissection, preparation, and sketching of the studied animals. The guide can also serve as a concise reference handbook on zoology.