A Great Introduction to Dissection for Anatomy Study

Clams are a perfect introduction to the science of dissection and offer a simple process to learning anatomy, the lack of features visible on the animal make it easier for students to learn anatomy without feeling squeamish. Unlike animals, clams have no eyes, ears, arms, or legs which makes it a great beginner specimen to learn the process of dissection.

Picking A Freshwater Clam for Beginner Dissection

Clams have a very basic structure and are very soft. To protect themselves, a shell is developed and is forced shut with the use of adductor muscles. Once the clam is opened, you can explore different structures like the siphon, mantle, foot, gills, heart, and visceral mass. The siphon is a tube-like structure that has 2 two tubes, a water inhalant and exhalant. The mantle is an interesting structure that protects the internal organs of the clam, the mantle secretes become the shell. The foot allows the clam to dig into the sand; different clams have different sized feet. The gills help the clam breathe and trap tiny pieces of food. The visceral mass contains a system of tubes, contains the reproductive organ, and other glans. The shells allow you to examine the age by counting the growth rings (stripes and striations), you can even see the 3 layers of the shell if cracked.

Technical Specifications of the Product

• Product dimensions:
  • Approximately 3–4 inches (varies slightly by specimen)
• Included with purchase:
  • 10 x Preserved Freshwater Clam Specimen

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.

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.