We often get asked:

               “Which specimen should we dissect in our classroom?”

Unfortunately,  there is no one answer that fits all.  It will vary from classroom to classroom.  Below are a few of our suggestions to find that perfect specimen for your class. 

For upper elementary and middle school students:

Invertebrates such as clams, squid, earthworms, and crayfish are our most popular options. These are relatively easy to dissect, economical, and make for easy clean-up and disposal.  Perfect for introductions to biology, anatomy, and environmental science. 

Vertebrates such as grass frogs, mice, and perch are great for younger students as well. 

For high school and college students:

Vertebrates such as fetal pigs, rats, and cats are recommended as a more advanced study for older students.  Fetal pigs closely resemble human anatomy and are great for upper level students in comparative anatomy and biology classes. 

We also offer several organs of the body. These are our most popular:

Sheep brains:  We offer several types from economical B-grade to brains that include the dura mater, hypophysis, roots and canals.

Eyes:   We offer cow, sheep, and pig eyes.  Cow eyes will be the largest available at over 2”+ and will include several of the muscles.  Sheep and pig eyes are smaller but are still a great resource for dissection.    You can also purchase a kit that includes all 3 for comparison!

Hearts: Pig vs Sheep.  Pig hearts are typically larger and often less fatty than a sheep heart. Both hearts are 4 chambered.

Kidneys: We offer sheep, pig, or cow kidneys.   Sheep kidneys are the smallest and least expensive. Cow kidneys are the largest. The pig kidney is offered as plain, single, double, or triple injected.

Click here to view our preserved specimens