Diversity of Invertebrates

In this course, we review the major groups of invertebrates which, apart from arthropods, account for most of
the animal species on the planet. The course provides the tools for describing and understanding biodiversity
and many of the species discussed play key ecological and economic roles. We review classification of
invertebrates into major groups and examine some of the extraordinary solutions they have developed to
movement, feeding, sensing and reproduction. Practical sessions illustrate the variety of invertebrate life
and include a field trip to search for specimens on the shore. Key skills include scientific drawing and
dissection and, above all, the skill of species identification, including classification, use of keys and
guidebooks and taxonomic conventions. These skills underpin all ecological resarch and are essential for
many jobs in environmental assessment and monitoring.