Biology - HOT Science Lab

Student
Animal-Vertebrate Fish "Perch" Dissection
(Adapted from: Prentice Hall Biology and various internet sites)
NGSSS:
SC.912.L.15.6 Discuss distinguishing characteristics of the domains and kingdoms of living
organisms. (AA)
Objective/Purpose: The purpose of the lab/activity is to:
1. Observe and identify the external parts of a fish.
2. Dissect and identify the internal organs of fish.
3. Observe and record the movement and breathing rate of goldfish.
Background Information:
Fishes are members of the phylum chordate and the subphylum vertebrata. The largest class of
fishes, class Osteichthyes, contains fishes with skeletons made of bone. Fishes exhibit many
adaptations for life in an aquatic environment. The perch and the goldfish are representative
members of the Osteichthyes class.
Problem Statement / Engagement:
1. How are the structures of a fish evident of adaptations for living in an aquatic
environment
2. What is the relationship between the number of times the mouth of the goldfish opens
and closes and the number of times the gill covers move
Materials:
Preserved perch (fish)
Dissecting tray
Dissecting kit
Dissecting microscope
Paper towel
Plastic bags
Live goldfish
Beaker
Water from aquarium
Fish net
Stopwatch
Procedures:
1. Obtain a preserved fish and rinse under running water to remove excess preservatives.
2. Make observations of the external anatomy and fill in the observations table.
3. Fill a large glass beaker three-quarters full with water from an aquarium.
4. With a fish net, transfer one goldfish into beaker.
5. Observe the goldfish and using a stopwatch count how many times the fish opens and
closes its mouth in one minute. Count how many times the gill covers move in one
minute.
6. Carefully return the goldfish to its appropriate aquarium.
7. Using your thumb, lift up the edge of the operculum on the preserved fish and raise it up
as far as you can. Using your scissors, cut the operculum off as close to the eye as
possible. You have exposed the gills. The gills are layered one on top of another.
8. Using your probe, carefully lift each of these layers. How many layers do you find
9. Using your scissors, remove one of these layers. Examine the feathery structure.
Biology HSL Page 134
Curriculum and Instruction