Rat dissection
Cut through the skin with scissors.

 
Pin down the skin as shown on the right.

 
 Cut though the abdominal cavity.
Identify as many organs as possible. Note where each organ is situated.
Organ Location Function
Stomach    
Duodenum    
Small intestine    
Kidney    
Liver    
Spleen    
Diaphragm    
Heart (B)    
Lungs (A)    
Trachea    
Oesophagus    
Caecum    

The heart is situated very close to the lungs. Suggest why.

What is the function of the heart?

What is the function of the rib cage?

 
Part of the digestive tract of the rat. What is the function of the digestive system?
Suggest why the small intestine is so long.

 

The tributary of the hepatic portal vein in the mesentery is clearly shown on the right. Click on the picture for a larger view.

To which major organ does the food absorbed in the hepatic portal vein go?

What is the function of the liver?

 

Under the digestive tract you will find the kidneys and major blood vessels.

What is the function of the kidneys?
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