Developmental Biology (With Practical) by Dr. Luna Phukan, published by Mahaveer Publications, is a comprehensive textbook designed according to the CBCS syllabus for B.Sc. 6th Semester Zoology Honours students across Indian universities.

The book provides an in-depth understanding of the fundamental and applied aspects of animal development, tracing the journey of life from gametogenesis to organogenesis. It explains key developmental processes such as fertilization, cleavage, gastrulation, differentiation, morphogenesis, and metamorphosis, presented in a clear and student-friendly language.

Special emphasis is placed on modern concepts in developmental biology, including embryonic induction, organizer concept, regeneration, and evolutionary developmental biology (Evo-Devo), making it relevant to current advances in the field.

The practical section of the book complements theoretical learning by offering hands-on exercises related to microscopic study of gametes and embryos, chick embryology, frog development stages, and slide preparations, thereby helping students gain laboratory skills essential for biological research.

Authored by Dr. Luna Phukan, an experienced academician, this book serves as a complete guide for undergraduate students of zoology and provides a solid foundation for those aspiring for postgraduate studies or competitive examinations in life sciences.

Key Features:

• Structured as per CBCS syllabus for B.Sc. 6th Semester Zoology Honours.

• Comprehensive coverage of both theoretical and practical aspects of developmental biology.

• Includes clear diagrams, definitions, and illustrations to aid conceptual clarity.

• Practical exercises designed to build laboratory competence.

• Authored by an experienced zoologist and educator.

• Published by Mahaveer Publications, a trusted name in academic publishing.

SECTION – A: THEORY

Unit 1: Introduction

• Historical perspective and basic concepts of developmental biology

• Phases of development

• Cell-to-cell interaction

• Pattern formation

• Differentiation and growth

• Differential gene expression

• Cytoplasmic determinants

• Asymmetric cell division

Unit 2: Early Embryonic Development

• Gametogenesis

• Spermatogenesis

• Oogenesis

• Types of eggs

• Egg membranes

• Fertilization (External and Internal)

• Changes of gametes during fertilization

• Blocks to polyspermy

• Planes and patterns of cleavage

• Types of blastula

• Fat map (including technique)

• Early development of frog up to gastrulation

• Early development of chick up to gastrulation

• Embryonic induction

• Organizer

Unit 3: Late Embryonic Development

• Fate of germ layers

• Extra embryonic membranes in birds

• Implantation of embryo in human

• Placenta: Structure, types, and functions

Unit 4: Post Embryonic Development

• Metamorphosis: changes and hormonal regulation in amphibians and insects

• Regeneration: modes of regeneration, epimorphosis, morphallaxis, and compensatory regeneration

• Ageing: concepts and theories

Unit 5: Implications of Developmental Biology

• Teratogenesis: teratogenic agents and their effects on embryonic development

• In vitro fertilization

• Stem cells (ESC)

• Amniocentesis

SECTION – B: PRACTICALS

Practical 1: Early Development in Frog

1. Frog blastula

2. Frog gastrula

3. Frog neurula

4. Frog tail-bud stage

5. Tadpole internal and external gill clefts

Practical 2: Chick Embryology (Whole Mount Studies)

1. Chick: W.M. 13 Hours Embryo

2. Chick: W.M. 21 Hours Embryo

3. Chick: W.M. 24 Hours Embryo

4. Chick: W.M. 28 Hours Embryo

5. Chick: W.M. 33 Hours Embryo

6. Chick: W.M. 36 Hours Embryo

7. Chick: W.M. 48 Hours Embryo

8. Chick: W.M. 72 Hours Embryo

9. Chick: W.M. 96 Hours Embryo

10. W.M. of 96 Hours Chick Embryo

Practical 3: Developmental stages and lifecycle of Drosophila from stock

Practical 4: Study of different sections of placenta

Practical 5: Drosophila culture