Preserved Specimen: Earthworm

Anatomy Lab’s Preserved Earthworm Specimen is one of the best introductory dissection specimens for students. The earthworm is unique due to its lack of skeleton and its delicate nature. The earthworm’s segmented external and internal anatomy is highly visible in this species due to its larger size compared to other earthworm types.

Perfect for students studying anatomy, biology, microbiology, and physiology, this earthworm specimen is a great hands-on way to enhance the student’s learning experience. Though relatively simple looking, this specimen is composed of complex organs and organ structures comparable to higher invertebrates. These specific earthworms have well-developed clitellum, an external section of their body that forms the cocoon that holds their eggs. Aside from their interesting external structure, they are also great for studying a digestive system that runs the length of their body and a respiratory system that doesn’t use regular respiratory organs.

Learn how the effect of evolution and ecology have affected the earthworm and other annelids through the anatomical dissection of the specimen. Anatomy Lab’s Preserved Earthworm Specimen are 8 – 10 inches, a great size for dissection and detailed observation of internal organs.

Injection Type: Plain Injected

Plain injected specimens have not been injected with colored latex, so the arterial, venous, and hepatic systems are presented in their natural colors

Shipping Notice:

Anatomy Warehouse recommends that you keep your specimen wet with holding fluid every time you use the specimen. A pail or jar for your specimen will ensure the longevity and usability of your specimen.

Some specimens may have a lead time of 4 - 6 weeks before your item is ready to ship. Please send us a message via Live Chat or give us a call at 800-422-1134 for more information.

Preservation Process:

Formalin is the most widely used, economical, and effective fixative used in preservation. Our supplier utilizes a low concentration (3.7%) to effectively preserve the entire specimen and prevent decay. After fixation, specimens go through a series of washes to remove residual formalin. The amount of residual formalin remaining is usually less than 1%, which is in line with the federal OSHA standard for formaldehyde LTL exposure of 0.75 ppm over an 8-hour period. Specimens are then stored and packaged in the supplier's non-toxic, non-formaldehyde holding solution. This solution inhibits decay, fungal and bacterial growth, and prevents desiccation of specimen. Specimens are never shipped in formaldehyde.

Warning:

This product can expose you to chemicals including formaldehyde, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, and methanol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Shelf Life and Storage

Take Care of Your Specimen

Specimens should be stored at room temperature and out of direct sunlight whether they are opened or unopened.

While dissecting your specimen, spraying the specimen with holding fluid will help keep the specimen moist, which will allow you to maximize your time with the specimen.

After dissection, spray your specimen generously with holding fluid before storing your specimen in an air-tight container. By following these guidelines, you can reduce the number of bacteria, mold, or other air particles on the specimen that will help inhibit mold growth.

Properly Store Your Specimen for Longevity

Unopened specimens are guaranteed to stay fresh for up to a year. With proper storage, this specimen can last for years if you store your specimen out of direct sunlight and keep it at room temperature.

Opened specimens are under no guarantee. Once a specimen is opened, it is up to you to care and store the specimen properly to extend the life of the specimen. Typically, our specimens should last a couple of weeks when properly cared for.