BIOL 2704: Evolutionary Biology

Discover the pivotal role of decomposers and detritivores in forest ecosystems. Understand the catastrophic consequences of their absence, from biomass accumulation to biodiversity loss. Learn how these unsung heroes maintain forest health and sustainability.

Explore the sensory marvels of the male silkworm moth known as Bombyx mori and how they detect specific chemical signals from females. Uncover a hypothesis about the unique sensitivity of the moth's antennae and a prediction stemming from it. Learn how to design an experiment to test this hypothesis and deepen your understanding of insect behavior.

Discover the significance of protobionts in the evolution of life, acting as a bridge from non-living to living entities. Understand their boundary formations akin to cell membranes and their rudimentary replication methods. Gain insights into the pivotal role they played in life's origin story.

Learn about male pattern baldness as we break down the science behind shrinking hair follicles and their effects on hair thinning. Learn why bald men still have hair follicles and what happens to them over time. Ideal for anyone keen to understand the biology of hair loss.

Explore what makes each element unique by focusing on the atomic components: protons neutrons and electrons. Learn why the number of protons known as the atomic number is the defining characteristic for each element's properties. Understand how protons set elements apart even as neutrons and electrons also play important roles.

Explore the intricacies of DNA replication and the pivotal role of Okazaki fragments. Understand the difference between the leading and lagging strands. Dive deep into the mechanisms that drive this life-sustaining process.