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Comparative Anatomy Dissection: Exploring Vertebrate Evolution

Prep Time:

3-4 hours

Cook Time:

Always handle sharp instruments with care.
Dispose of specimens and materials according to proper biohazard procedures.
Avoid cross-contamination between specimens by using different tools or thoroughly cleaning them between uses.

Serves:

Ages 16 and up

Level:

Servings

About the Recipe

[object Object]

Ingredients

  • Specimens for dissection: fish, frog, rat

  • Dissection kits: scalpels, scissors, forceps, dissection pins, trays

  • Lab coats and gloves

  • Magnifying glasses or dissecting microscopes

  • Anatomical diagrams for each species

Preparation

  • Preparation:

    • Ensure all participants wear lab coats and gloves for safety.

    • Each dissection group receives one specimen and a set of dissection tools.

    • Review the anatomical diagrams and identify key structures to focus on during the dissection.

  • Dissection Process:

    • Begin with external observations: Note the body structure, scale/skin type, limb arrangement.

    • Open the ventral body cavity carefully to expose internal organs.

    • Identify and label major organ systems: digestive, circulatory, respiratory, nervous.

    • Dissect specific systems further to observe structures like the heart, brain, and muscles.

  • Comparative Analysis:

    • Compare and contrast observed anatomical features among the three species.

    • Discuss the evolutionary significance of the differences and similarities in organ systems and structures.

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