Fundamentals of Zoology

Zoology is the scientific study of animals- the study of life in all its amazing variety, the intricacy of its structure, the accuracy of its functions, and the continuity of evolution. The animal kingdom includes a magnificent range of organization and adaptation; from the unicellular organisms to highly specialized mammals. The Fundamentals of Zoology has been intended to present the learners with this diversity systematically, coherently and conceptually.

The book is organized in a way that it offers a balanced ground on classical zoology and incorporates the important aspects of the new biological sciences. The introductory units cover animal diversity, starting with non-chordates and then to chordates, thus developing a proper framework of comparative morphology and classification. The focus is made on diagnostic features, evolutionary relationships, and adaptive significance, so the students can see the patterns instead of memorizing the separated facts. The intermediate parts of the text are dealing with cell biology and genetics, and the structural and functional foundation of life. The issues of cell organization, cell division, molecular genetics and inheritance are discussed in a logical order in order to relate structure to functions and mechanism to outcome. The next logical step is developmental biology, which takes students through the processes of gametogenesis, fertilization, and early embryonic development, which demonstrates the process by which complex systems form out of simple ones.

The study of animal physiology is presented in a clear and accurate way, with the description of how organs systems work together to achieve homeostasis. Ecology and evolution are the topics that make the discussion of organism, populations, communities and ecosystems, to emphasize the interconnections of life. Applied zoology is a final step in the academic process, which shows how knowledge of zoology is applied in the area of agriculture, economy, management of the environment, and human welfare.

Special attention has been given to make sure that ideas are not represented using complicated language in a way that does not affect the scientific integrity. Diagrams are made to improve visualization and facilitate real learning. The practical-based content makes the book conform to the general undergraduate laboratory needs and thus it can be used in academic course work and test preparation.

The intended audience is mostly undergraduate students of zoology and life sciences. Nevertheless, it can also be a valuable source of information to students about to take competitive examinations as well as readers interested in having a systematic introduction to the study of animals.

Zoology is not the study of animals, it is a study of life processes, adaptation, evolution, and ecological balance. Hopefully, this book will capture the interest of people, make them think critically, and appreciate the world of life better.