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Major topics covered include: (i) introduction to animal evolution, anatomy and physiology; (ii) introduction to plant diversity, anatomy and physiology and (iii) introduction to ecology. The animal section focuses on the origin, characteristics and range of vertebrates, the range of adaptations present in vertebrates, the evolution of mammals, primates and humans and gives an introduction to the physiological functions necessary for life. The second part of the course focuses on plants and introduces plant diversity with an emphasis on the diversity and anatomy of flowering plants. Also discussed are plant responses to internal and external stimuli, including plant hormones. Transport of water and nutrients in plants is also discussed. The Ecology section reviews succession and climaxes, mineral cycles and energy in ecosystems.
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