Course Code:  ZOOL 41612

Title:  Herpetology

Pre-requisite: ZOOL 12523

Co-requisite:  None

Status: Theory cum Practical.

Compulsory.

Learning outcomes:

After completion of the course unit, the student will be able to;

• describe the global distribution and diversity of herpetofauna,
• describe the general anatomy of amphibians and reptiles,
• explain the physiological processes of amphibians and reptiles,
• demonstrate competencies in identifying herpetofauna of Sri Lanka to the lowest possible taxon using field techniques in herpetology, and
• discuss the economic and ecological importance of herpetofauna.

Course content:

ntroduction to herpetology, Biogeography of herpetofauna, Systematics of amphibians and reptiles, Herpetofauna in Sri Lanka, General anatomy of amphibians and reptiles, Water balance and gas exchange, Thermoregulation, spacing movements and orientation, Communication and social behavior, Foraging ecology and diets, Defense and escape, Predators and parasites, Reproduction and life histories,  Threats, need for conservation and future of herpetofauna.

Laboratory sessions on systematics of amphibians and reptiles, field techniques in herpetological studies including marking and individual recognition techniques.

Method of teaching and learning:

A combination of lectures, laboratory and field practical sessions, computer based learning, self-studies, assignments and small group discussions.

Assessment:

In-course assessment and end of semester examination.

Recommended reading:

1. De Silva, P. H. D. H. (1980). Snakes of Sri Lanka. Department of Government Printing, Colombo.
2. Dutta, S.K. & K. Mamamendra-Arachichi (1996). The Amphibian Fauna of Sri Lanka. Wild life Heritage Trust of Sri Lanka, Colombo.
3. Pough, F.H., R. M. Andrews, J. E. Cadle, M. L. Crump, A. H. Savitzky & K. D. Wells (2004). Herpetology, 3^rdEdition, Pearson Prentic Hall.
4. Vitt, L.J. & J. P. Caldwell (2013). Herpetology; An Introductory Biology of Amphibians and Reptiles. 4^th Elsevier