Fetal Pig Dissection Activity Lab Journal 1. Explain similarities and differences in the terms used to describe anatomical direction in quadrupeds (pigs) and bipeds (humans). (4 pts) Toward the head for the pig, anterior is used. For humans, superior is used. Posterior is used to describe toward the tail for the pig, while in humans the term used is inferior. Toward the back for bipeds is inferior. For quadrupeds, posterior is used to describe toward the back. Towards the front for humans is described as posterior, while in pigs the term ventral is used. 2. What are specialized characteristics of all mammals? Which of these did you observe during your pig dissection activity? (4 pts) The pig had hair. This is one characteristic of mammals. The pig also had nipples, indicating the presence of mammary glands. 3. What is the length of your fetal pig specimen in cm? Based on the recorded length, what is the estimated gestational age of the pig? (2 pts) My pig was about 30 cm in length. My pig was old enough to be born. 4. You examined the masseter muscle, lymph nodes, and salivary glands. Regarding the salivary glands, what are the three different types of salivary glands found in humans and how do their secretions differ? (3 pts) The three different types of glands found in humans are the parotid gland, submandibular gland, and the sublingual gland. The parotid gland is the largest, and it produces the saliva necessary for swallowing. It also begins the digestion process for starches. The submandibular gland produces a mix of serous fluid and mucus. The sublingual gland mainly produces mucus. 5. Choose a minimum of five digestive organs/structures that you observed during the dissection activity. Identify and describe each one. Explain the anatomical observations you made and describe the functions of each of these organs. (5 pts) Liver- Produces bile. The liver has a distinct shape and color, so it was easily identifiable. Gallbladder- Stores and concentrates bile to be released into the small intestine. Distinct shape and located behind the liver. It was easy to find. Stomach- Mixes food and secretions to begin digestion. Next to the liver and has a noticeable color. Large intestine- Absorbs water. When making the cut into the pig, there was a lot of excess water and fluid built up. I could only assume it was from the intestines. Small intestine- Mixes food with bile and pancreatic juice; main site of nutrient absorption. This was the most noticeable organ when making the cut into the pig. It was the first organ I seen, as it is so long and distinctly shaped.