Experiment: Dissection and Observation of Torpedo (Electric Ray) Anatomy

Aim: To perform a dissection of a Torpedo (electric ray) specimen to observe and identify its anatomical structures and investigate physiological adaptations.

Materials:

1. Preserved Torpedo (electric ray) specimen

2. Dissection tray

3. Dissection kit (scalpel, dissecting scissors, forceps)

4. Gloves and safety goggles

5. Hand lens or magnifying glass

6. Ruler or calipers

7. Paper towels

8. Specimen pins

9. Anatomy reference materials (books, charts)

Experimental Procedure:

1. Place the preserved Torpedo specimen on a dissection tray and examine its external features using a hand lens or magnifying glass.

2. Make a longitudinal incision along the ventral side of the specimen using a scalpel, taking care not to damage internal organs.

3. Gently lift and pin back the flaps of the body wall to expose the internal organs.

4. Observe and identify internal anatomical structures, including the digestive system, respiratory system, circulatory system, reproductive organs, and nervous system.

5. Take measurements of selected structures using a ruler or calipers, noting their sizes and proportions.

6. Make sketches or diagrams of the external and internal anatomy of the Torpedo specimen, labeling key structures and indicating their relative positions.

7. Clean up the dissection area, dispose of biological waste properly, and wash hands thoroughly after handling the specimen.

Observations:

– Torpedo’s body is flattened with dermal denticles for protection.

– It has dorsal and ventral fins for propulsion and stability.

– Ampullae of Lorenzini are present for electroreception.

– Internal structures include a cartilaginous skeleton, digestive and respiratory systems, and reproductive organs.

Results and Analysis:

– Torpedo shows adaptations for efficient swimming and prey detection.

– Its anatomy reflects specialized features for marine life and predator-prey interactions.

Conclusion:

The dissection provided insights into Torpedo’s anatomy, highlighting its adaptations for marine survival and predator behavior. Understanding these features contributes to our knowledge of elasmobranch diversity and ecosystem dynamics.