BIO 1021 College of Saint Benedict Reproductive Adaptations & Homeostasis Questions

Part I

Question 1: Part A Reproductive Adaptations

Consider the variation in reproductive systems within the animal kingdom. These are discussed in the textbook readings. Select 1 or 2 traits and compare and contrast the human situation with other members of the animals kingdom. Two examples of traits are sexual reproduction and menopause.

Part B

Describe the development of the human embryo from the formation of the zygote to the point where the three embryonic germ layers develop. List the types of adult tissues that are derived from each of these germ layers. Be prepared to discuss how disruption early in development can cause major problems in the body of the developing individual.

Your discussions must be informed by the textbook.

Part II

Homeostasis Essay

Assignment 2: Homeostasis

The minimum length for this assignment is 1,500 words. Be sure to check your Turnitin report for your post and to make corrections before the deadline to avoid lack of originality problems in your work.

The maintenance of homeostasis is of major importance to all organ systems in the body and the overall survival of the individual. Explain how homeostasis is the maintenance of a dynamic range of environmental qualities rather than holding the internal environment at a set point. What would be wrong with a set point (say for body temperature) rather than a working range of temperatures?

The endocrine system is closely tied to homeostasis functioning. Give two examples of hormones (including their glands of origin and action) that play major roles in homeostatic processes in the body. What happens if these hormones are disrupted in their actions?

Also, look at how we adapt to survival in the outside world. Discuss how maintaining homeostasis gives us greater freedom of activity from dependence upon changes in the external environment. What happens during extremes that force our bodies out of homeostatic bounds? Give specific examples.

Why is the maintenance of homeostasis especially important during development of new humans within the bodies of their mothers? What can go wrong if specific homeostatic functions are disrupted?