Students in the Great Bend High School (GBHS) Zoology classes recently experienced an exciting and educational week as they explored marine biology through hands-on dissections of Perch Fish and Dogfish Sharks. Under the guidance of GBHS Science Teacher Luke Maneth, students delved into comparative anatomy, gaining a deeper understanding of organ structure and function in marine life.
Over the course of two days, students worked with specially prepared specimens, many of which had arteries and veins injected with bright dyes to enhance visibility. This allowed students to easily identify key components of the circulatory system while also correlating anatomical structures with their physiological roles in aquatic ecosystems.
A particularly unique aspect of the dissection experience came when students encountered several pregnant sharks, providing them with a firsthand look at different stages of shark gestation. One group even discovered a surprise pregnancy in a specimen that had been marked otherwise, further enriching their exploration of marine reproductive biology. Most of the pregnant sharks contained two babies, but one group in the 8th-hour class discovered a shark with five babies, making for an exciting and memorable discovery.
The specimens used in the dissection were purchased from Carolina Biological Supply, a company specializing in high-quality dissection specimens for educational purposes. Each shark was individually vacuum-sealed with preservation liquid to maintain its quality and ensure an optimal learning experience for students.
“This unit gives students an opportunity to apply their textbook knowledge to real-world biological structures,” said Maneth. “Being able to see and touch these anatomical features fosters a much deeper understanding of how organisms function in their environments.”
Students were fully engaged throughout the dissection process, making connections between physical structures and their purposes in marine ecosystems. Many expressed excitement about the experience, describing it as an eye-opening way to learn about biology beyond the classroom.
The hands-on approach aligns with GBHS’s commitment to providing interactive and impactful science education, preparing students for future studies in biology, medicine, and environmental sciences.
For more information about science programs at GBHS, please contact Great Bend High School at (620) 793-1521.