University of Alberta

ENT 321, Insect Physiology

*3 (fi 6) (second term, 3-0-0). Insect Physiology. 
Biochemical and physiological adaptations that have allowed insects and their relatives to become extremely successful in most habitats, ways in which insect functions differ from those of other animals, and use of insect models for general physiological and biochemical research. Prerequisite: BIOL 107 or SCI 100 and ENT 220. 
 
 
This page contains a summary of information contained in the calendar. In case of discrepancy, the calendar is the final authority.

The main features of the course are:

Lecture portion (to approximately 3rd week in March): We focus on a number of physiological mechanisms that are peculiar to insects. Most of this is done by analysis of original research papers. Although the specific areas covered will be limited, at the end of the course you should be able to appreciate papers in virtually any other area of insect function. More important, you should have a strong understanding of the experimental basis of insect physiology.

Student oral presentation portion (from approximately 3rd week in March): Each student will deliver an oral presentation on a recent research paper (or short series of related papers) from the primary literature.

Major-essay portion: Each student shall submit an end-of-term essay on any topic relating to insect function.

See the current course description for further details.