Biology Lab || Fetal Pig Dissection - Part 1
Introduction to Fetal Pig Anatomy
Overview of Dissection Techniques
- The lab focuses on examining the anatomy of a fetal pig, following previous dissections of various organisms.
- The session will cover both external and internal anatomy, specifically the digestive and excretory systems.
External Features of the Fetal Pig
- Distinctive features include a flat snout with two nostrils for breathing and smelling; pigs are omnivores.
- The fetal pig has not fully developed eyes and ears; it possesses four legs designed for walking.
- A short tail is present at the posterior end, with mammary papillae visible on the ventral side, indicating its mammalian nature.
Beginning the Dissection
Preparing for Dissection
- Secure the fetal pig's legs with rubber bands before making incisions to ensure stability during dissection.
Making Incisions
- Start with a medial incision along the sternum to access the thoracic cavity while being cautious not to damage internal organs.
- Transverse cuts are made around the umbilical cord and near hind legs to facilitate opening up the body cavity.
Exploring Internal Structures
Accessing Internal Organs
- Use blunt scissors to cut through muscle layers while pulling skin away from internal organs for better visibility.
Identifying Key Organs
- The liver is identified as the largest organ in the body cavity, consisting of five lobes; beneath it lies the gallbladder.
- The stomach is one-chambered, performing both mechanical and chemical digestion; it connects to a winding small intestine.
Understanding Digestive and Excretory Systems
Digestive System Components
- The pancreas aids in digestion and metabolic processes located at the first curve of the small intestine connecting to large intestine.
Excretory System Overview