What Is Rat Dissection?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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A rat dissection is

conducted to explore the internal structure and function of basic mammalian anatomy

. The purpose of this exercise is to explore the alimentary canal of the rat and observe the different parts of the digestive system.

What is the purpose of the lab rat dissection?

Introduction: In this lab, you will be examining many characteristics of a rat’s anatomy. Dissections

help researchers get a 3-dimensional picture of how the systems of a body work together

. Now you’ll have the opportunity to see how the respiratory, digestive and circulatory system are arranged spatially.

What do you learn from rat dissection?

The rat’s body structure and organ systems are relatively similar to those of a human. This similarity provides an interesting look into mammalian

anatomy

and allows students to make comparisons between humans, rats, and other mammals.

Why do rats often used in dissection?

As a minimum requirement, mice used in experiments must be of the same purebred species. Another reason rodents are used as models in medical testing is that

their genetic, biological and behavior characteristics closely resemble those of humans

, and many symptoms of human conditions can be replicated in mice and rats.

What is the position of the Rat during dissection?

Get your rat, name it if you wish, and place it on a dissecting tray

in supine position

. Tie down your rat as directed in your lab sheets. Place your bagged rat in the trays on the back counter. Rinse your dissecting tray and turn it upside down on a towel.

What 5 organs are found in the thoracic cavity of a rat?

  • Trachea.
  • Heart (Ventricles)
  • Right Lung.
  • Diaphragm.

Why do rats not have a gallbladder?

Humans and most laboratory species have a gallbladder. However, the

rat has no gallbladder

. Bile from the rat liver flows directly through the (hepatic) bile duct into the small intestine (Hebel and Stromberg, 1988).

Where do rats for dissection come from?

The animals used in dissection may be taken from

their natural habitat

, or obtained from animal breeders and dealers, ranches, and slaughterhouses – industries notorious for animal cruelty.

What is the largest organ in a rat and why?


The liver

attached to the caudal surface of the diaphragm, is the largest internal organ of the body. It has four lobes, two of which are partially divided. Unlike most mammals, including mice and carnivores, the rat does not have a gal bladder.

Which areas of the rats body are not covered with hair?

Examine the tail,

the tails of rats

do not have hair. Though some rodents, like gerbils, have hair on their tails. 7.

What are the 3 bones in the forelimb of the rat?

The bones in the forelimb of the rat are

Humerus, radius ulna

. 3. The esophagus lies underneath the trachea, though it is easier to locate in the abdominal cavity where it enters the stomach.

What does the lungs do in a rat?

The lungs are lined with alveoli, which help

the rat to absorb the oxygen it needs

. Oxygen is then put into the circulatory system to transport it around the rat’s body. The gases that the rat doesn’t need get sent back out into the environment when the rat breathes.

What are the 4 bones in the hindlimb of the rat?

The bones of the hind limb are

femur, tibia and fibula, seven tarsals, five metatarsals

, and the same number of phalanges as in the forepaw.

Where does the esophagus lead to in a rat?

The esophagus lies

underneath the trachea

, though it is easier to locate in the abdominal cavity where it enters the stomach. Locate the larynx, which is just anterior to the trachea. The larynx is the voice box, and it allows rats to making squeaking noises.

What is the function of the anterior in a rat?

Terms in this set (96)

the “whiskers”; have a sensory function that allows the animal to judge the size of an opening that it is about to pass through. most anterior opening of the female;

leads to the urinary system

. Site for urine and reproductive products to exit the body; Hidden inside a fold of skin.

What are the features of rat?

General features. Rats are generally

slender with a pointed head, large eyes, and prominent, thinly furred ears

. They have moderately long legs and long, sharp claws. The bald soles of their narrow hind feet possess fleshy pads of variable size, depending on species.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.