The course deals with the evolutionary development and sequential phylogenetic link that exists between the various groups of vertebrates. Morphological and physiological characteristics and adaptations and geographical locations of each vertebrate class will be covered in adequate detail. The major vertebrate species of Ethiopia will be overviewed with more emphasis on the endemic mammals. The lecture component is reinforced by practical sessions in which students will study representative live, preserved and/or model specimens of the different vertebrate groups and other relevant audiovisual materials.