Advanced Biology Laboratory Exercise
Unit 3: Homeostasis
Name ____________________ Period ___
Comparative Anatomy Lab – Mammalian & Amphibian Circulatory
Systems
Objectives
Compare the structure of a mammalian and an amphibian heart.
Practice proper dissection techniques.
Pre-Lab Questions
1. What are the three main components that make up the circulatory system in most animals?
2. What are the functions of the circulatory system in both mammals and amphibians?
Data & Observations: The Mammalian Heart
1. Indentify the structures labeled in Figures 1 & 2 below.
2. Refer to your textbook or notes and trace the path of blood through the heart, beginning with the superior vena
cava.
Revised 11/1/2010
Data & Observations: The Amphibian Heart
1. Indentify the structures labeled Figures 3 & 4 below.
2. Refer to your lab handout and trace the path of blood through the heart, beginning with the superior vena cava.
Analysis of Observations
1. Which structures did you identify on both the mammalian and amphibian heart?
2. How many chambers are found in the mammalian heart? How many chambers are found in the amphibian heart?
3. How does the difference in number of heart chambers affect circulation in each animal?
4. Which type of heart is more efficient for supplying the cells of the body with oxygen? Explain why.
5.
Which organ(s) supply the blood with oxygen in mammals? In amphibians? (You may need to do some outside
research to answer this question.)
Conclusion – Write a 3-4 sentence conclusion for this lab. Include your results from both activities A & B.
Revised 11/1/2010