Comparative Anatomy Invertebrates Lab:
Here are some photos from our Porifera, Cnidaria, Annelida, Mollusca, and Arthropoda dissections:
Here are some photos from our Porifera, Cnidaria, Annelida, Mollusca, and Arthropoda dissections:
Here is the data and analysis we collected from these dissections:
Reflection:
The invertebrates comparative anatomy lab was an enlightening experience to physically see how organisms have evolved over time. It was interesting to see how we all are interrelated in some context. One of the most fascinating components of the lab was the gradual development of the heart. We first saw a form of a heart in the Earthworm (Annelida). These were called the aortic arches. To think that from Annelida, Mollusca, and Arthropoda dissections, we first-handedly experienced the evolution of one of the most vital organs for modern humans - the heart. Another intriguing aspect of this lab was the various digestive systems whether it was intercellular or extracellular. Before Annelids, we ate and excreted waste in the same opening. I enjoyed watching the digestive system grow more complex and sophisticated. In the Grasshopper (Arthropoda) dissection, I was able to pull out the stomach filled with nutrients that were preserved.
I'd like to know more about the anatomy of other mammals. For example, I've been reading several articles on the similarity in aging between dolphins and humans. Maybe looking at each species brain would make the common traits apparent. Also, I'd like to be edified on the broad range of species that were a result of the Cambrian Explosion 543 million years ago. I've seen animations in documentaries that make the species look completely different than any animal that lives today. Finally, I'd like to learn more about the dinosaurs that once lived on our planet. Maybe an experiment of similar causes of the mass extinction and observing it effects that harmed and destroyed the dinosaur population. In general, this lab was the most engaging so far.
The invertebrates comparative anatomy lab was an enlightening experience to physically see how organisms have evolved over time. It was interesting to see how we all are interrelated in some context. One of the most fascinating components of the lab was the gradual development of the heart. We first saw a form of a heart in the Earthworm (Annelida). These were called the aortic arches. To think that from Annelida, Mollusca, and Arthropoda dissections, we first-handedly experienced the evolution of one of the most vital organs for modern humans - the heart. Another intriguing aspect of this lab was the various digestive systems whether it was intercellular or extracellular. Before Annelids, we ate and excreted waste in the same opening. I enjoyed watching the digestive system grow more complex and sophisticated. In the Grasshopper (Arthropoda) dissection, I was able to pull out the stomach filled with nutrients that were preserved.
I'd like to know more about the anatomy of other mammals. For example, I've been reading several articles on the similarity in aging between dolphins and humans. Maybe looking at each species brain would make the common traits apparent. Also, I'd like to be edified on the broad range of species that were a result of the Cambrian Explosion 543 million years ago. I've seen animations in documentaries that make the species look completely different than any animal that lives today. Finally, I'd like to learn more about the dinosaurs that once lived on our planet. Maybe an experiment of similar causes of the mass extinction and observing it effects that harmed and destroyed the dinosaur population. In general, this lab was the most engaging so far.