Course content

The course is part of the first year module in biology. It covers the connection between structure and function at the organ- and organism level. Animal physiology explains how organs work together to ensure survival of the animal and enable it to adapt to different environments. The course will provide current knowledge of general physiological principles, organ physiology, regulatory mechanisms, and key physiological mechanisms involved in animal adaptions to different environments. The animal groups covered will range from invertebrates to vertebrates and the habitats discussed will include aquatic, terrestrial and aerial. In addition to the lectures, the student will also participate in laboratory practicals that involve animal physiology experiments. These practicals will be related to the information in the lectures and will help the students to understand important concepts.

Learning outcome

After finishing the course the student should have good insight into the relationship between structure and function at organ and organism level of a wide variety of animals. The student should also have knowledge about how animals adapt physiologically to different environments.

To understand how animals work and how this enables them to survive, the student should obtain knowledge about:

• How animals, from invertebrates to vertebrates, function in their natural habitat, including aquatic, terrestrial and aerial environments.
• How animals respond to and cope physiologically with environmental challenges.
• The structure and function of organ systems in various animals.
• Central methods in studying animal physiological problems.

With the knowledge received throughout the course, the student should acquire the following skills:

• Acquire knowledge from within the central subjects of animal physiology.
• Experience with the methodology and equipment of physiological experiments.
• Conduct a physiological experiment on animals to collect data.
• Experience in analysing and interpreting physiological information.

With the background provided by this course, the students should have a general competence in:

• Presenting relevant information in response to specific tasks and questions in writing.
• Handle biological material and scientific equipment.
• Working independently and as part of a group.

Learning methods and activities

The language of instruction is Norwegian and English (i.e. some lectures and activities are taught in Norwegian, some in English). The course is typically taught every other week.

Lectures and discussions: 37 hours

Laboratory work: 4 hours

Compulsory assignments

• Lab report
• Lab attendance

Recommended previous knowledge

The courses BI0001 + MOL4010, or BI1001.

Course materials

• Textbook: "Biology: a global approach" by Campbell, Urry, Cain, Wasserman, Minorsky and Orr (12th edition)
• Lecture slides
• Lab manuals

Credit reductions