Worms:
Although students will study the characteristics of the three groups of worms, segmented, round and flat, we will have dissection labs with the flatworm Planaria. From the phylum Platyhelminthes, this worm has regenerative properties, able to regrow severed body parts. They can be found in freshwater ponds, lakes and streams. The video below shows the very primitive structure of the head, auricles (sensory organs), eye spots, and pharynx (a singular tube for feeding and eliminating wastes). This worm doesn't have a circulatory system. Here's a great link from HHMI explaining the regenerative properties. This link, from Marc Perkins Biological Photography, has a great overview of the Planaria as well.
Link for web search: http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/platyhelminthes/platyhelminthes.html
Link for Exploratorium for regeneration:
https://www.exploratorium.edu/imaging_station/research/planaria/story_planaria1.php
Link for web search: http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/platyhelminthes/platyhelminthes.html
Link for Exploratorium for regeneration:
https://www.exploratorium.edu/imaging_station/research/planaria/story_planaria1.php
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Student video to start your lab:
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Video: How Planarian Eat |
Planarian Under Dissecting Scope
This is a 2 headed planarian under the dissection scope in our science class! Congratulations to Jasmine, Kadi and Kamryn in 7P-7 and Valdon, Matthew and PJ in 7P-4 on these successful cuts!