Perch are an intermediate dissection specimen....as such, you must have taken Beginning Dissection with me, a Beginner dissection specimen class (Earthworm, Starfish, Clam), or have previous dissection experience. The perch is a ray-finned fish with teeth! This begins our foray into vertebrate animals as previously our specimens have been part of the invertebrate family. They have a thorough circulatory system as well as an interesting swim bladder we will be discussing. 

At the beginning of class, we will review the dissection kit tools and their uses. We will also observe the external anatomy of the preserved perch before beginning the dissection. As the dissection begins, students can expect to observe the spinal cord, swim bladder, ear canal, heart, liver, intestines, gills, and brain. We will continue to discuss the terms dorsal, ventral, anterior, and posterior in terms of each specimen. 

Students need to have either taken Beginning Dissection or have previously used a dissection kit in order to take this class. If they have not, please take my Beginning Dissection class prior to this one. Dissection tools are sharp! Your student must be able to maturely handle these tools during class. 

Recommended Order of Dissection Classes: 
Beginning Dissection
Beginner Earthworm Dissection
Beginner Starfish Dissection
Beginner Clam Dissection
Intermediate Crafish Dissection
Intermediate Perch Dissection
Intermediate Frog Dissection
Advanced Pig Dissection

Students also need to have their own dissection kit, preserved perch specimen, and a clean place to perform the dissection. Some students also prefer to wear gloves while dissecting as well. 

Please note, fewer numbers of students may result in a shortened class time. 

There will be no refunds issued for a student(s) missing class.