Surveys the marine invertebrate phyla, their body plans, life histories and ecological roles. Emphasis falls on the relationship between structure and function, and on the ecological consequences of the different solutions the groups have arrived at for feeding, reproduction and dispersal.
Laboratory work is specimen-based and uses material collected during the course. Students learn to identify local invertebrate fauna to family and, in several groups, to species. Two sessions are held on the shore at Prentice Coastal Field Station, timed to the tide rather than the timetable.
Assessment includes a practical identification examination. Students who intend to continue into ecology or fisheries should treat this course as foundational for both.