How to Dissect a Squid
Dissecting squid helps students understand the biological makeup of these sea creatures. This process also sets the stage for in-depth discussions on marine life in general, through a comparison of the anatomical structure of squid and other types of marine creatures. As the second most plentiful creature in the ocean (second only to fish), squid have distinctive anatomical features including three hearts, beaks used for cutting and large nerve fibers used to carry messages.
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Things You'll Need
- Squid
- Scissors
- Scalpel
- Pins
- Newspaper
- Rags
- Plastic tray
- Magnifying lens
- Diagrams
Instructions
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Sharp scissors designed specifically for dissection are used to cut the squid. Lay out newspaper, trays and squid. Students are encouraged to have diagrams of the anatomical makeup of the squid present as they prepare to dissect their squid. Begin by separating the two long tentacles from the eight arms with pins if necessary. Have students identify each body part of the squid and prepare for cutting.
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The "pen" acts as a backbone for the squid. Cut through the mantle from end to end. The mantle has a deep ridgeline, and the single cut should be made along one side of the ridge. Fold back each side of the flesh within the mantle, and remove the "pen," a solid, supportive piece within the mantle. The pen gives the squid stability when moving, and without it the squid would flop in the water.
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The squid has ink sacs that may burst if they are not removed gently. Remove the ink sacs, gills and tentacle tips. Through referencing the diagram of a squid, remove all evidence of these three parts from the creature. The ink sac is delicate and liable to burst with careless cuts, so gently remove this part as a whole to avoid a mess. If a burst occurs, use rags to clean the work area of the ink.
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Use a magnifying lens to further investigate the parts of the dissected squid. Display all parts found on the tray and within the carcass of the squid. Many notable parts will still be intact within the squid after initial dissection, including the nerve bundles, brain, digestive tract and the hearts. These parts are easily viewable and may or may not be removed. Share your findings with other students or researchers, and discuss each part showcased on the display tray. Use a magnifying lens to achieve close-up views of each part. Use rags to clean the dissection area.
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References
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