Dissecting of a Pig

Purpose: How are the external features and internal organ systems of a fetal pig organized? Introduction: Sus scrofa, or the domestic pig is a member of the class Mammalia and the order Artiodactyla. Since we as humans are also a member of class Mammalia, we have a good deal in common biologically with pigs, although we might not like to think so. Since we have a good deal in common, it is very helpful for us to study these animals both anatomically and physiologically. We do this when we test medicines on pigs, perfect surgical procedures on pigs, and even when we used to use pig valves for replacements in human hearts. Thus the pig is a first-rate example of a mammal and the purpose of this lab is to recognize the specific similarities between the pig and ourselves as humans. As the pig is a mammal, many aspects of its structural and functional organization are identical with those of other humans. Shared traits of those of a pig and human are their mammary glands, common hair, live birth, metabolic systems, similar organ systems, and basic body form. Swine are widely used in research and testing. They share anatomic and physiologic characteristics with humans that make them unique and viable model for any research. Their gastrointestinal anatomy has some significant differences from that of humans; however, the physiology of their digestive processes has made them a valuable model for digestive diseases. The urinary system of swine is similar to humans in many ways, especially in the anatomy and function of the kidneys. The anatomy and physiology of organs such as the liver, pancreas, kidney and heart have also made this species the primary species of interest for doctors to gain a better understanding on how the human body generates. Hypothesis As the pig is a mammal, many aspects of its structural and functional organization are identical with those of other mammals, including humans. Thus, the study of the fetal pig is in a very real sense; a study of humans. When we cut into the fetal pig I suspect for the digestive system that I will see the diaphragm Materials: †¢Fetal pig, preserved †¢Dissecting tray †¢Cord/twine †¢Dissecting kit †¢Paper towel †¢Plastic bags (2) †¢Gloves †¢Ruler/meter stick Procedure: †¢External Anatomy †¢Digestive System †¢Respiratory System †¢Circulatory System External Anatomy As I analyzed our fetal pig I established that the ears and eyes are lateral to its head , the tail is posterior to the nose. On my fetal pig he had 4 digits