Experiment: 1
Aim: To study the non chordates from pond water.
Material Required: Compound microscope, Pond water sample, Slide, Cover slip
Procedure: Use a clean dropper to collect a small sample of pond water.
Carefully place one or two drops of the pond water sample onto the center of the clean microscope slide.
Gently place the cover slip over the drop of pond water, ensuring it is centered and evenly spread. This helps prevent air bubbles from forming.
Place the prepared slide under microscope, and observe it.
Observation:
Look for various microorganisms such as protozoa (e.g., Paramecium, Amoeba), algae, bacteria, and other microscopic life forms present in pond water.
Note their shapes, sizes, movements, and any other distinctive features.
Experiment: 2
Aim: To study the life cycle of mosquito.
The life cycle of a mosquito is a fascinating and complex process that involves four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
Observations:
Eggs are usually white or light-colored and float on the surface of the water.
Larvae are long and slender with a distinct head end and tail end. They feed on organic matter in the water.
Pupae are non-feeding stages that rest at the surface of the water with their breathing tubes exposed.
Adults have fully formed wings, antennae, and proboscis. They feed on nectar but females also feed on blood.
Experiment: 3
Aim: To study the various minor phyla as connecting link.
Peripatus as connecting link between Annelida and Arthropoda:
Peripatus, also known as velvet worms, are members of the phylum Onychophora. They are often considered a connecting link between arthropods and annelids due to their unique combination of characteristics from both groups.
Although not as clearly segmented as arthropods and annelids, Peripatus has a body that can be divided into segments.
They have paired, unjointed appendages called onychophoran limbs, which are somewhat similar to the appendages of arthropods.
Peripatus has a cuticle that molts periodically, similar to arthropods.
They possess setae-like structures on their bodies, similar to those found in annelids.
The body plan of Peripatus combines elements of both arthropod and annelid body plans, making it an intermediate form.
Experiment: 4
Aim: To study the characters of burrowing non chordates. e.g. Earthworm
Earthworms, belonging to the phylum Annelida, are segmented worms that play a crucial role in soil ecosystems.
Burrowing Character of Earthworms: Earthworms are skilled burrowers, creating tunnels in soil which aerate it and improve its structure. They Use setae to anchor and pull their bodies forward. They Contract and relax muscles in a wave-like motion to move forward. They Secret mucus to lubricate the soil and reduce friction.
Ecological Importance:
Their burrowing activities help in aerating the soil.
Earthworms contribute to nutrient cycling by breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients.
They improve soil structure by creating tunnels that allow water and air to penetrate.
Experiment: 5
Aim: To study the different parts of insects by examining Housefly.
To study the various parts of insects by examining a housefly
Head: Brain, eyes, antennae, and mouthparts.
Compound Eyes: Wide-angle vision.
Simple Eyes (Ocelli): Detect light and dark.
Antennae: Sensitive to smells, sounds, and touch.
Proboscis (in some): Sucks nectar or fluids.
Thorax: Three segments with legs and wings. Six legs for walking and sensing. Two pairs for flying.
Abdomen: Several segments housing digestive and reproductive organs.
Digestive System: Mouth to anus with specialized parts.
Circulatory System: Open system with hemolymph and dorsal vessel.
Respiratory System: Tracheae for direct cell breathing.
Experiment: 6
Aim: Identification of non chordates specimens of various phyla.
Sycon:
Morphological features:
Body is typically cylindrical or vase-shaped.
The body surface has numerous pores (ostia) that allow water to enter.
A network of canals and chambers that facilitate water circulation.
Specialized cells with flagella that create water currents, aiding in feeding and respiration.
Silica or calcium carbonate spicules provide structural support.
Protein fibers that add strength to the sponge’s structure.
A large opening at the top osculum through which water exits.
- Hydra:
Morphological features:
Cylindrical Body: Typically 1-30 mm long, with a narrow base and a wider oral end.
Attached Base: The basal disc attaches Hydra to substrates.
Long, thin tentacles around the oral end containing nematocysts (stinging cells) for capturing prey.
A small opening at the oral end leading to the gastrovascular cavity.
A simple digestive system where food is digested and nutrients are absorbed.
A diffuse nervous system that coordinates basic movements and responses.
- Starfish:
Morphological features:
Radial Symmetry: Typically five arms radiating from a central disc.
Flexible Arms: Each arm is covered with tiny, moveable spines and pedicellariae (small pincer-like structures).
Tube Feet: Suckers on the underside of each arm used for locomotion, feeding, and grasping prey.
Eye Spots: Simple eyes at the tip of each arm that detect light and dark.
Water Vascular System: A network of fluid-filled vessels that facilitate movement and feeding.
Digestive System: A stomach that can be extended out of the body to digest prey externally.
Gonads: Reproductive organs located in the arms.
