Academic Calendar 2007 (new)» UNDERGRADUATE COURSE INFORMATION» Biology
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Biology

Biology Courses
 
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Biology 022, General Biology
Description: The fundamental principles of biology with the integration of global issues. Topics will include genetics, cell biology, ecology and evolution, bioenergetics, and plant and animal physiology.
Antirequisite(s): Biology 023 and Biology 025.
Prerequisite(s): Grade 12U (SB14U) Biology with a minimum mark of 80%.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours, 1.0 course.
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Biology 023, Introductory Biology
Description: Content similar to that of Biology 022. The course is restricted to students who have not passed OAC Biology in the last three years or who have received less than 80% in OAC Biology or Grade 12U (SBI4U) Biology.
Antirequisite(s): Biology 022 and Biology 025.
3 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours, 1.0 course.
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Biology 025, An Introduction to the Biology of Organisms
Description: A study of the whole organism with emphasis on organization, growth, development, integration, reproduction and heredity.
Antirequisite(s): Biology 022, Biology 023, and the former Biology 026.
3 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
Biology 025 is not intended to serve as a prerequisite for other Biology courses and will not fulfill the requirements for entry into the Biology program or modules.
Offered only by Distance Studies.
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Biology 029F/G, The Nature of Biological Things
Description: This course will focus on the science underlying current (or past) ideas about natural history. Typically, three lectures to explore specific topics (for example the suicide of lemmings, or folklore about vampires) and the fourth lecture in any series is used for general discussion.
3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Note: May not be taken for credit by students registered in either the Faculty of Science or the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry.
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Biology 090b, Biology and Microorganisms
Description: The fundamental principles of biology with emphasis on cell function and the role of microorganisms in public health, sanitation, food, and nutrition. Restricted to Food and Nutrition programs or by permission of the Department of Biology.
Antirequisite(s): The former Plant Sciences 090b.
Prerequisite(s): Grade 12U (SBI4U) Biology.
2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Note: May not be taken for credit by students registered in any modules offered by either the Faculty of Science or the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.
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Biology 101a/b, Genetics in Everyday Life
Description: This course will promote awareness of how genetic principles and technologies underlie such aspects of daily life as ageing, reproductive technologies, environmental mutagenesis, molecular genealogy, companion animal breeding, emerging diseases, endangered species, genetic discrimination (eugenics), genetic engineering and forensics.
3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Note: May not be taken for credit by students registered in any module offered by either the Faculty of Science or the Schulich of Medicine & Dentistry.
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Biology 204a, Changing Plant Communities of Ontario
Description: A study of the natural flora of Ontario, with emphasis on southwest Ontario. The course will deal with plants and their distribution pattern as affected by past and modern climates and technological change. Some field work included.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 022 or Biology 023.
5 lecture/laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 217b, Plants as a Human Resource
Description: An introduction to economically important plants and their products, especially as sources of food, fuel, drugs and industrial raw materials. National and international programs relating to food and other plant resources.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 022, 023, or registration in Human Ecology or Foods and Nutrition program.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 240F/G, The Evolution of Invertebrate Phyla
Description: An introduction to the morphology of the invertebrate phyla and discussion of theories explaining the evolution of invertebrate body forms.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 022 or Biology 023.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 244a/b, Analysis and Interpretation of Biological Data
Description: Measurement, sampling, estimation, and statistical hypothesis testing are considered: theory, intuitive background, and practical relevance will be stressed.
Antirequisite(s): All other university level statistics courses including Statistical Sciences 135, 137a, 222a/b, 241a/b, Psychology 281. Statistical Sciences 024a/b is not an antirequisite.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 mathematics course or equivalent numbered 020 or above.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Note: This half course may be used to meet the statistics requirement in the B.Sc. Biology degree. It may NOT be used in any degree as a 200-level half course in Biology with a laboratory component.
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Biology 260a/b, Introduction to Plant Development and Physiology
Description: An introduction to plants as functional organisms. Emphasis is placed on the aspects of form and function that are unique to plants. Lecture topics emphasize physiology and include hormones, development, nutrition, water relations, movement and response to environmental stress. Laboratory topics emphasize anatomy and morphology but also include physiological experiments.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 205a.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum mark of 60% in Biology 022 or 023.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 271a/b, Vertebrate Biology
Description: The biology of vertebrates including evolution and structural adaptation in a variety of vertebrates. Emphasis will be on features of animal biology unique to the vertebrates.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum mark of 60% in Biology 022 or 023.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 272a/b, Comparative Animal Physiology
Description: The principles of animal physiology are examined from a comparative point of view. The physical, chemical and biochemical principles common to physiological systems and the variability in these systems in diverse animal groups is emphasized.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum mark of 60% in Biology 022 or 023.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 281b, Genetics
Description: The structure, transmission and expression of genetic elements in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms and populations.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum grade of 60% in Biology 022 or Biology 023; Biochemistry 280a.
2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Mandatory course in second or third year of BSc Biology program and in most modules offered by the Department of Biology.
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Biology 282b, Cell Biology
Description: Molecular and structural organization of cells in relation to function. Composition and dynamics of the plasma membrane and membrane-bound compartments in cells. Synthesis and trafficking of proteins. Cytoskeleton and cell motility. Membrane receptors in signal and energy transduction, cell-cell adhesion and recognition. Excitable membranes.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum grade of 60% in Biology 022 or Biology 023; Chemistry 020 or Chemistry 023.
2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Mandatory course in second or third year of BSc Biology program and in most modules offered by the Department of Biology.
Note: It is strongly recommended that Biochemistry 280a be taken prior to this half course.
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Biology 283a, Ecology
Description: An introduction to ecology, the scientific study of the interactions that determine the distribution and abundance of plants, animals, and microorganisms. Ecological concepts at the organism, population and ecosystem levels will be considered, including tolerance limits, life history evolution, competition, predation, population growth and control, and ecosystem dynamics.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum grade of 60% in Biology 022 or Biology 023.
2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Mandatory course in second or third year of BSc Biology program and in most modules offered by the Department of Biology.
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Biology 284a, Patterns in Life's Diversity
Description: This course considers the large-scale patterns in the Earth's biota: patterns in life's diversification and extinction, changing the biota through time; patterns in the form and functioning of the organisms, reflected in biological classification; patterns in the global distribution of life's lineages, and in their major responses to Earth's diverse climate.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 022 or Biology 023.
2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
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Biology 285b, Environmental Biology
Description: Basic principles of environmental biology, human ecology, ecosystem structure and function. Human population growth and its impact on soil, water, energy, agriculture and natural populations of plants and animals. Environmental problems created by resource exploitation and possible solutions.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 126.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 022 or Biology 023; or registration in Human Ecology (Foods and Nutrition) programs.
2 lecture hours, 2 tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 286a, Evolution
Description: Fundamental issues in evolutionary science will be covered, focusing on evolution by natural selection. Evolutionary processes will be examined from the mutation of genes to the generation of species. Course topics will include evolution as science, adaptation, sex and sexual selection, species concepts, and human evolution.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum mark of 60% in Biology 022 or Biology 023.
3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 290F/G, Scientific Method in Biology
Description: A laboratory course designed to promote understanding of the scientific method by acquainting students with selected technical and conceptual tools that will enable them to generate, analyze and communicate data from experimental investigations of their own design in the areas of cell biology, population biology and genetics.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 290a/b.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum grade of 60% in Biology 022 or Biology 023.
5 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Mandatory course in second or third year of BSc Biology program and in most modules offered by the Department of Biology.
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Biology 304F/G, Evolution of Plants
Description: This course provides an introduction to the major groups of photosynthetic organisms - now classified in three Domains and numerous Kingdoms. These organisms feed the world, produce many of today's medicines, and provide numerous ecosystem functions. Lectures emphasize diversity, evolutionary relationships and importance, and labs emphasize morphology and recognition.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 216b.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 283a and either Biology 284a or 285b.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 316a, Advanced Cell Biology
Description: The functional organization and physiology of cells with special reference to cellular membranes, energetics, cell motility, cell specializations, and cell-cell interactions. The course is based on the interpretation of experimental observations.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a; Biology 282b.
2 lecture hours, 2 demonstration/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 318F/G, Biology of the Fungi
Description: An introduction to the fungi with emphasis on their biology, ecology, genetics and interactions with other organisms, including humans. The fungi studied include those with motile cells in the Kingdom Chromista and the much more numerous species in the Eumycota - Zygomycetes, Ascomycetes and Basidiomycetes - including those with yeast- like forms.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 318b.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a.
Pre- or Corequisite(s): Biology 281b.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 320Z, Field Studies In Biology
Description: Specialized field courses given by biologists from Ontario universities at various times during the year. Students should be prepared to meet travel and living expenses.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 320y.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Department of Biology. See the departmental office in January of each year for list of offerings, requirements, and credits. This course may be used as a half laboratory course.
Sessions and hours by arrangement, 0.5 course.
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Biology 321F, Plant Ecology
Description: Current topics in plant ecology from three perspectives: (1) population and community dynamics with emphasis on those aspects that differ from animal-based models; (2) environmental influences; (3) applied plant ecology (e.g. phytoremediation, dendrochronology, invasive species).
Antirequisite(s): the former Biology 203F, Biology 403a (formerly Plant Sciences 403a).
Prerequisite(s): Biology 283a, Biology 244a/b (or equivalent courses: Statistical Sciences 135, 222a/b, 241a/b, Psychology 281), Biology 290F/G.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours. 0.5 course.
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Biology 325F/G, Techniques in Physiology and Biochemistry
Description: Training in current techniques used in physiology and biochemistry. Emphasis is placed on the functional integration of systems from the molecules to the whole organism level and the assignment of function to genes. Techniques include chromatography, electrophoresis, protein and nucleic acid blotting, enzyme assays and whole organism or organelle measurements.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 325a/b.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a; Biology 282b; one of Biology 260a, 272b, Physiology 312 or the former 310, Physiology 314a.
1 lecture/tutorial hour, 5 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 326F/G, Cell Biology Laboratory
Description: Training in current cell biological methods such as tissue culture, cell fractionation, computer-assisted microscopic analysis and immunocytochemistry.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 326a/b.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a; a minimum mark of 70% in Biology 282b.
5 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
(Enrolment may be limited.)
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Biology 332a, Parasitology
Description: Parasitism as a way of life; structures and life histories of selected parasites with emphasis on species affecting humans. The relationships between host and parasite will be stressed in lectures, recognition and identification in the laboratory. Living material will be studied when available.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a; Biology 282b, or permission of the Department.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 335F/G, Animal Ecology
Description: The life history consequences of behavioral, physiological, and morphological adaptations. Ecological aspects of reproduction and growth. Energetics and the use of physiological indices in ecological studies.
Prerequisite(s): Either Biology 283a or 286a.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 336F/G, Animal Behavior
Description: Introduction to the science of animal behavior with emphasis on the evolution and adaptive nature of behavior. A comparative experimental approach is used to illustrate topics such as the development, control, and organization of behavior, foraging, predation, mate choice, mating systems, parental care, communication, and social behavior.
Antirequisite(s): Psychology 321F/G, the former Biology 336a.
Prerequisite(s): A half or full course equivalent statistics course chosen from: Biology 244a/b, Statistical Sciences 222a/b, 241a/b, 135, or Psychology 281. Note: Statistical Sciences 137a is not acceptable.
Pre- or Corequisite(s): Biology 283a, Biology 286a is recommended.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 338a, Developmental Biology
Description: Principles underlying the molecular, biochemical, and cellular mechanisms by which an organism develops. Classic and contemporary perspectives in embryology and development.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a; Biology 281b and Biology 282b.
2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
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Biology 340a/b, Ecology of Populations
Description: Empirical and theoretical approaches to examine population dynamics and causes of population changes in space and time. Population processes are critical components of conservation biology and management of endangered species.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 283a
2 lecture hours, 3.0 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 342F/G, Conservation Biology
Description: This course will introduce some of the fundamental concepts and issues in conservation biology. Conservation Biology is examined from a historical, research, management, and political angle. Topics explored include discounting rates, the precautionary principle, invasive species, pollutants, global warming, habitat fragmentation, ecosystem function and conservation genetics.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 283a. Biology 286a is recommended.
2 lecture hours, 3 tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 345F, Community Ecology
Description: An integrative approach to ecology, stressing the structure and function of communities. Theoretical explanations for diversity, stability and productivity across a variety of community types are evaluated in light of empirical evidence.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 283a.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 346b, Wildlife Ecology and Management
Description: The application of ecological principles to the management of wildlife species. Topics include techniques, harvest, predation, habitat loss and management, stocking and reintroductions, and economics of wildlife. Identification and biology of game, pest and furbearing species in laboratories; films are used frequently.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 283a.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 351a/b, Environmental Animal Physiology
Description: A comparative approach to the physiological regulatory mechanisms of animals and cells in relation to the environment (radiation, temperature, pressure, water and ions) in which the animal lives. The mechanisms by which information is received and processed by sensory, neural and endocrine systems are described.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a; Biology 272b, 282b.
3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 360a/b, Advanced Plant Physiology
Description: Physiology and biochemistry of plants with emphasis on primary plant metabolism, including: photosynthesis, respiration, photorespiration, and nutrient assimilation. Other topics include plant-soil relationships, herbicides, phytoremediation, photomorphogenesis, medicinal plants, plant products and alternative fuels.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 305a.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 260a, or the former Biology 205a, or permission of the instructor.
3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 366b, Evolutionary Genetics
Description: The study of evolution in large and small random and non-random mating populations, showing discrete and quantitative inheritance. The roles and importance of mutation, inbreeding, drift, selection and linkage.
Prerequisite(s): One of Biology 244a/b, Statistical Sciences 135, 222a/b, 241a/b, Psychology 281; Biology 281b; or permission of the Biology Department. Biology 286a is recommended.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 375a/b, Chemical Ecology
Description: This course will examine how plants and animals use chemical cues to find essential resources, defend against natural enemies, locate suitable mates, and maintain social systems. How chemical ecology may be used to elucidate basic ecological problems and to provide more environmentally friendly pest management practices will also be discussed.
Prerequisite(s): Chemistry 020 or 023, Biology 283a.
3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 392a, Principles of Human Genetics
Description: Genetic principles and their application to humans. Special attention will be directed to the genetic variation in our species, mutations, mechanisms of gene expression, and mapping the human genome.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a; Biology 281b.
2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
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Biology 393b, Genetic Engineering
Description: An accounting of the principles in Genetics that have led to advances in animal and plant breeding earlier in this century; recombinant DNA and other technologies employed in contemporary biotechnology; and the basis for continued progress in genetic engineering.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 393G.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a; Biology 281b.
2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
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Biology 394a, DNA: Genome Organization, Mutagenesis and Repair
Description: This course will cover concepts related to DNA organization, replication, mutagenesis and repair in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Lecture topics will include current literature in DNA mutagenesis and repair designed to permit direct examination of concepts, experimental design, methodology, data analysis and future trends.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a; Biology 281b.
2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
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Biology 395a, Advanced Genetics
Description: This course will use examples from diverse biological systems to expand basic genetic principles such as mutation, recombination, gene and genome evolution, complex inheritance and functional genomics. Current research information will be used to inform discussion of the implication and applications of these topics.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum grade of 70% in Biology 281b.
2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
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Biology 396a/b, Genomics and Beyond: A Laboratory Course
Description: A practical introduction to modern experimental approaches in genetics and molecular biology as applied to such topics as genomics (gene identification and classification), functional genomics (genome expression profiles) and bioinformatics (computational genomic analysis).
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 390a and 391b, if taken prior to September 2004.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum mark of 70% in each of Biology 281b and Biology 290F/G.
2 lecture/tutorial hours, 4 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 397b, Regulation of Gene Expression
Description: A discussion of the genetic material and molecular mechanisms governing its expression in a variety of organisms.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 390a, 391b.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a; Biology 281b.
2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
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Biology 405F/G, Ecosystem Ecology
Description: This course traces the flow of water, energy, and nutrients from their abiotic origins, to their cycles through microbes, plants, and animals. This course will synthesize current advances in ecology with established theory to offer a comprehensive survey of ecosystem pattern and process.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 283a.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours. 0.5 course.
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Biology 407G, Plant Secondary Metabolism
Description: A study of the role and biosynthesis of the diverse array of secondary natural products produced by plants. Secondary metabolites are divided into three main classes: alkaloids, isoprenoids/poly acetates and phenolics. For each class, the biosynthesis, physiology, ecology and biological activity of representative compounds will be discussed.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 407b, Plant Sciences 407b.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 360a/b (or the former Biology 305a), Chemistry 213a/b.
3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Offered in even-numbered years.
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Biology 408G, Environmental Plant Physiology
Description: The impact of environment on plant function and adaptation. Topics include the radiation environment, use of radiation to sense environmental change, carbon metabolism and productivity, inorganic nutrients and the rhizosphere, responses to environmental stress (water, temperature, radiation and aerial pollution).
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 408b (formerly Plant Sciences 408b).
Prerequisite(s): Biology 260a (or the former Biology 205a); registration in a Biology program or module and completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 300 level or above. Biology 360a/b is recommended.
3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 410F/G, Seminar in Physiology.
Description: Current topics in physiology critically reviewed through faculty and student seminars.
Antirequisite(s): Biology 420F/G, 491E, 493, 496.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 351a/b or 360a/b or Physiology 312 (or the former Physiology 310); and completion of at least 1.0 additional Biology courses at the 300 level or above; and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module or Honors program offered by the Department of Biology.
3 lecture/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 411F/G, Physiology of Animal Migration
Description: The study of animal migration, focusing on migration as a life history trait, integrating physiology and biochemistry with ecological and evolutionary processes.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 272a/b or Physiology 312 (or the former Physiology 310) or permission of the Department and either completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses from the 300 level or above, or registration in year 4 of the Honor Specialization in Animal Behavior.
3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 418a, Microorganisms and Plant Disease
Description: Plant diseases caused by abiotic and biotic factors with emphasis on effects of important pathogenic viruses, bacteria and fungi. Relationships between host, pathogen and environmental factors, epidemiology and methods of control.
Antirequisite(s): The former Plant Sciences 418a.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 318F/G, or permission of the Department.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 420F/G, Seminar in Conservation Biology
Description: This course exposes students to detailed analysis of topical issues in Conservation Biology. Student led discussions of the science, politics and non-government organization activities relating to issues ranging from local to international scale will expose students to the many aspects of conservation biology.
Antirequisite(s): Biology 410F/G, 491E, 493, 496.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 342F/G; and completion of at least 1.0 additional Biology courses at the 300 level or above; and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module or Honors program or a Major in Conservation Biology offered by the Department of Biology.
3 lecture/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 423F/G, Marine Environments
Description: The ecological and physiological challenges posed to animal communities of marine (including intertidal, benthic, planktonic, coral reef and deep-sea) environments. Topics include: feeding, movement, defence, developmental and life cycle strategies of animals in these environments. Invertebrate examples dominate discussion but a previous course in invertebrate zoology is not a prerequisite.
Antirequisite(s): The former Zoology 423F/G.
Prerequisite(s): Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 300 level or above.
3 lecture/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 430a/b, Ecosystem Health
Description: A characterization of ecosystems, contaminants, and the human health concerns. Course material will cover the production, transport, transformation and fate of environmental contaminants, with an emphasis on their anthropogenic impacts. Emphasis will include the assessment of human health exposure and biomarkers of environmentally associated disease.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 283a or permission of the instructor or registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization offered by Department of Biology, Environmental Science or the Basic Medical Sciences Department or a Major in Ecosystem Health.
3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 436F/G, Behavioral Ecology
Description: A study of the relationships between animal behavior, ecology and evolution. Topics include: behavior genetics and learning; mating systems, reproductive strategies and parental investment; foraging behavior, predation and competition; social groups and communication.
Antirequisite(s): The former Zoology 436G.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 336F/G or Psychology 321F/G and either completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses from the 300 level or above, or registration in year 4 of the Honor Specialization in Animal Behavior.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/seminar hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 438G, Advanced Developmental Biology
Description: An analysis of specific topics in the embryology and development of model organisms. The course will focus primarily on genetic and biochemical pathways which have been conserved between distantly related organisms.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 438b, Zoology 438b.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum grade of 75% in Biology 338a or the former Biology 338b.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/ tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 440G, Developmental Genetics
Description: A comparative analysis of genetics principles underlying axial patterning, sex determination, epigenetic phenomena and other developmental pathways in a select group of model organisms.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 440b, Zoology 440b.
Prerequisite(s): Either Biology 338a or the former Biology 390a or permission of the Department of Biology.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 441F, Special Topics in Evolution
Description: A critical examination of topics in evolutionary biology such as levels of selection, speciation, patterns of diversification, origin and radiation of selected groups, biogeography, and taxonomy and phylogeny.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 441a, Zoology 441a.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 286a and either completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses from the 300 level or above, or registration in year 4 of the Honor Specialization in Animal Behavior.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/discussion hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 443G, Political Biology
Description: The biological consequences of human activities for the biotic world and particularly human beings and their institutions. Direct physical and chemical effects upon metabolism, development, adaptation, genes, and population structure. Indirect effects through climatic change, population density, social conditions and changed patterns of survival. Predictions and mechanisms for influencing the future.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 443b, Zoology 453b.
Prerequisite(s): Biochemistry 280a; Biology 282b; 283a; and completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 300 level or above.
2 lecture hours, 3 tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 445a, Microscopy and Imaging in Biology
Description: A survey of modern microscopy and imaging techniques in biology. Emphasis on practical and theoretical experience with light and fluorescent microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, and new fluorescent molecules used in imaging. Students generate, process and assemble their own images electronically for publication quality plates.
Antirequisite(s): The former Zoology 455a.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 326F/G or permission of the Department.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 450F/G, Independent Study in Biology
Description: A project course in a particular field under the direction of a faculty member. Prerequisites: Admission to fourth-year honors program in the Department of Biology or Environmental Science (old program), or registration in the final year of an Honors Specialization module (NAC) offered by the Department of Biology. Students must have arranged a project with a supervisor before completing registration. A current listing of projects is available from the Biology Department Office. See research notice boards for areas of specialization of the faculty and fields available.
Antirequisite(s): Biology 499E, the former Biology 450a/b, Plant Sciences 450a, Zoology 450a/b.
8 laboratory/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 457Z, Field Studies in Biology
Description: Specialized field courses given by biologists from Ontario universities at various times during the year. Students should be prepared to meet travel and living expenses.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 457y, Zoology 420y.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Department. See the Department of Biology Office in January each year for list of offerings, requirements, and credits. This may be used as a half laboratory course.
Sessions and hours by arrangement, 0.5 course.
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Biology 458Z, Field Studies in Biology
Description: Specialized field courses given by biologists from Ontario universities at various times during the year. Students should be prepared to meet travel and living expenses.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 458y.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Department. See the Department of Biology Office in January each year for lists of offerings, requirements, and credits. This may be used as a half laboratory course.
Sessions and hours by arrangement, 0.5 course.
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Biology 459F, Research Hypothesis Testing
Description: This course will equip students with some of the basics of experimental design and statistical analysis useful for understanding, conducting and presenting biological research. The emphasis is on practical application rather than theory, and on problems of particular concern in biological studies.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 444a, Zoology 444a.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 244a/b or one of: Statistical Sciences 135, 222a/b, 241a/b, Psychology 281; and completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 300 level or above.
2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 460b, Human Molecular Genetics
Description: This course will offer an up-to-date examination of the current status of human genetics with emphasis on the molecular information. The specific course content is expected to change from year to year reflecting research progress, including the human genome project.
Antirequisite(s): The former Genetics 413b, 477.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 392a and 396a/b (or the former Biology 390a or 391b); one additional 0.5 course in Biology at the 300 level or above; and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module or Honors program or a Major in Genetics offered through the Department of Biology.
2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 461F, Genes and Genomes I
Description: An examination of the current concepts of organization, transmission and expression of eukaryotic genes in the context of the chromosome. Topics to be covered include chromatin organization and composition, genomic rearrangements, techniques for mapping genes and manipulating genomes.
Antirequisite(s): The former Biology 461a, Genetics 411a, 433.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 396a/b; and one of the following: Biology 394a, 395a, 397b or the former Biology 390a or 391b; and one additional 0.5 course in Biology at the 300 level or above; and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module or Honors program or a Major in Genetics offered through the Department of Biology.
2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 462b, Genes and Genomes II
Description: An examination of our understanding of the organization, structure and function of the genes and genomes of plants, emphasizing recent developments in plant molecular genetics involving model organisms. Topics include plant gene expression, mapping of plant genes, molecular tools for DNA transfer, the interrelationship of nuclear, mitochondrial and chloroplast genes.
Antirequisite(s): The former Genetics 412b.
Prerequisite(s): Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 300 level or above; and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module or Honors program or a Major in Genetics offered through the Department of Biology; or permission of the instructor.
2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Biology 482, Investigative Techniques In Genetics
Description: A study of the techniques currently used in the various disciplines of genetics.
Antirequisite(s): The former Genetics 492.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum mark of 70% in each of Biology 396a/b and 1.0 course from: Biology 366b, 392a, 393b, 394a, 395a, 397b, the former Biology 390a, 391b; and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization in Genetics or the Honors Genetics program; or permission of the Genetics Undergraduate Coordinator.
4 laboratory hours, 1.0 course.
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Biology 489a/b, Biosystematics and Phylogenetics
Description: An overview of modern approaches to the classification and identification of living organisms, dealing with such topics as molecular evolution, the theory of biological systematics, phylogenetics, DNA fingerprinting, the Tree of Life and Barcoding projects, and bioinformatics.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 281b and completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 300 level or above.
2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
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Biology 491E, Seminar in Biology
Description: A critical review and evaluation of scientific papers and laboratory data in a series of seminars, involving guest speakers and student participation, to give training in the technique of presentation of scientific reports.
Antirequisite(s): Biology 410F/G, 420F/G, 493, 496.
Prerequisite(s): Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 300 level or above and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module or Honors Program offered by the Department of Biology.
3 lecture/tutorial hours, 1.0 course.
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Biology 493E, Seminar in Genetics
Description: Topics to be chosen each year to integrate and augment the study of genetics as presented in other genetics courses.
Antirequisite(s): Biology 410F/G, 420F/G, 491E, 496E.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum grade of 70% in Biology 396a/b and enrolment in the final year of the Honors Specialization in Genetics or the Honors Genetics program, or permission of the Genetics Undergraduate Coordinator.
3 seminar/tutorial hours, 1.0 course.
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Biology 496E, Seminar in Cell Biology
Description: Current topics in cell biology, critically reviewed through faculty and student seminars. Required course in the Honors Cell Biology Program.
Antirequisite(s): Biology 410F/G, 420F/G, 491E, 493E.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the fourth year of the Honors Cell Biology Program or registration in the Honors Specialization in Cell and Developmental Biology module and completion of Biology 316a and 326F/G and an additional 0.5 Biology course at the 300 level or above.
3 seminar/tutorial hours, 1.0 course.
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Biology 499E, Honors Research Thesis
Description: A major laboratory or field project in Biology that emphasizes experimental design, instrumentation, collection and analysis of data and communication of experimental results by oral and written presentations.
Antirequisite(s): Biology 450F/G or the former Biology 451F/G
Prerequisite(s): Fourth year registration in an Honors Specialization module or Honors program offered through the Department of Biology. Students must have arranged a project with a supervisor before completing registration. In the Spring see Biology notice boards for research areas of specialization of the faculty and fields available.
Minimum 15 laboratory hours per week and during the first term an additional 2 seminar hours per week; 1.5 course.
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Academic Calendar 2007 (new)» UNDERGRADUATE COURSE INFORMATION» Biology