Lecture Notes: Introduction to Echinoderms and Course Preparation

Course Preparation and Orientation

• Speaker: Susan Keen, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Academic Programs, College of Biological Sciences
• Orientation Topics: Selection of Fall Courses
  • Placement exams for Chemistry, Math, English
  • Aim: Ensure readiness for UC Davis classes
  • Pre-class or mainstream introductory class based on placement results
  • "Workload classes" for extra preparation
• Preparatory Video
  • 50-minute class on sea stars and relatives
  • Emphasizes note-taking, discussion, and interaction
  • UC Davis classes often provide podcasts and PDFs for review

Key Features of Echinoderms

• Echinoderm Characteristics
  • Deuterostomes, with unique body features
  • Learning Goals: define deuterostomes, body plan, diversity
  • Synapomorphies: pentaradial symmetry, calcareous endoskeleton, water vascular system

Body Plan and Development

• Body Symmetry and Evolution
  • Triploblastic body plans, bilateral symmetry
  • Evolution of pentaradial symmetry
  • Deuterostomes vs. Protostomes: cleavage and development
• Water Vascular System
  • Hydraulic system for locomotion, feeding, respiration
  • Components: madriporite, stone canal, ring canal, tube feet

Reproduction and Ecology

• Reproduction
  • Dioecious species with external fertilization
  • Importance of synchronization in spawning
  • Asexual reproduction via regeneration
• Ecological Roles
  • Important in marine ecosystems (kelp forests)
  • Keystone species: impact on ecosystems such as urchin barrens

Classifications and Morphology

• Classes of Echinoderms
  • Crinoids (sea lilies)
  • Asteroids (sea stars)
  • Ophiuroidea (brittle stars)
  • Echinoidea (urchins and sand dollars)
  • Holothuroidea (sea cucumbers)
• Morphological Adaptations
  • Transition from radial to bilateral symmetry
  • Modifications in body plans, such as tube feet and endoskeletons

Study Strategies and Expectations

• Learning Strategies
  • Self-assessment through practice tests
  • Focus on learning goals and understanding material beyond notes
  • Importance of maintaining a C average for good academic standing
• Advice and Resources
  • Visit the Biology Academic Success Center (BASC) for tips
  • Consider strategies for effective learning and grades monitoring

Conclusion

• Emphasis on understanding and adapting to university-level learning
• Encouragement to prepare for orientation and upcoming academic challenges
• Opportunities to review and test oneself based on provided materials