Dissection

Frog Dissection Pre-lab Why dissect a frog? Frogs and humans are vertebrates with similar organ systems. Although all of the internal organs are not the same in frogs and humans, it is helpful to learn about anatomy through dissection. We will be looking at each body system, and exploring individual organs of the frog. We will make comparisons of the frogs’ anatomy to our own. The frogs that we will use in our lab were bred for the scientific purpose of learning anatomy. The companies that provide frogs make sure that the frogs are not an endangered species. The supply companies also use safe solutions to preserve the specimens. We still need to use gloves and wash our hands while working with preserved specimens. Computer simulated dissections will be used in this lab by individuals who choose not to participate in the actual dissection. The frogs gave their lives so that we can learn more about them and more about ourselves. In order to best use this opportunity to learn and show respect for the frog, we must follow all directions that are given to us and follow all safety procedures.

Digestive System: similar to humans - adult frogs are carnivores - frog has a large mouth with a tongue (attached at the front) used to capture insects - has two sets of teeth (two on top, two below) - swallowing of prey aided by its eyes (pressure pushes insects down to stomach) - order of digestive system: 1) mouth; (2) pharynx; (3) esophagus; (4) stomach; (5) small intestine; (6) large intestine; (7) cloaca (anus) - frogs have a liver and pancreas too Circulatory System: - frogs are amphibians (thus, they are cold blooded) - frogs have arteries, veins, capillaries, heart, and blood - frog heart has 3 chambers: 2 atriums, 1 ventricle (human heart has 4 chambers: 2 of each) - this causes there to be some mixing of oxygenated and de-oxygenated blood Respiratory System: - frogs exchange O2 and CO2 in their lungs, just like humans do - frogs have 2 lungs for gas exchange, and...