ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY. 



THE term PHYSIOLOGY signifies " a discourse on Na- 

 ture," and hence is applicable to an explanation of the 

 laws which govern the growth of vegetables, and the 

 crystalization of minerals, as well as to a discourse on 

 the functions of animal life. 



Animal Physiology is divided into two distinct de- 

 partments, viz., Comparative and Human. Comparative 

 Physiology is a discourse or treatise, on the corporeal 

 functions of the inferior animals. Human Physiology 

 explains the corresponding functions of Man. 



In pursuing the subject of Animal Physiology, the 

 student will constantly be reminded that nothing has 

 been left undone, even to the minutest detail, which 

 could in any way advance the welfare and comfort of 

 living existences taken as a whole. On the contrary, 

 he will find that each animal is placed in a situation 

 most congenial to its own organization and capacities, 

 and that it is provided with instruments and endowed 

 with senses and capabilities exactly befitting the condi- 

 tion in which it is placed. The earth worm, for in- 

 stance, has no use for eyes, since it never voluntarily 

 comes to the light ; nor for hands or wings, since these 

 would be worse than useless in the place and manner 

 of its existence. Nor has the fish any use for lungs or 



What is the meaning of the term Physiology? How is Animal 

 Physiology divided 1 What is said of the adaptation of the organs and 

 capacities of animals to their wants ? 

 2 



