The four microscopic organisms profiled here are “classics,” according to the accompanying material, not just because of their prominence in biology textbooks, but “because studying them broadens our concept of what it means to be alive.” The Biology Classics: Paramecium, Hydra, Planaria & Daphnia is divided into four parts, each running about 7-8 minutes with individual chapters offering an in-depth look at each organism's structure, feeding and digestion, reproductive behaviors, and similar life forms in its particular phylum. The microphotography is excellent (it's great to see a flatworm suddenly take on a bit of drama and flair because of good filming and editing), but it's the conversational and engaging narration that really sets this program apart from the usual dry microbiology films (here the term “quiescent” is explained by saying that planaria get snoozy). Boasting a solid curriculum, this is highly recommended. Aud: J, H. (E. Gieschen)
The Biology Classics: Paramecium, Hydra, Planaria & Daphnia
(2006) 31 min. DVD: $128. BioMEDIA Associates. PPR. Color cover. ISBN: 1-930527-12-8. Volume 21, Issue 6
The Biology Classics: Paramecium, Hydra, Planaria & Daphnia
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.