Association for Biology Laboratory Education

Exploring Animal Photoreceptors and Eyes
 

Kathy Winnett-Murray & Lori Hertel

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2011, Volume 32

Abstract

In this exercise, students examine an array of invertebrates and vertebrates to explore structure-function relationships among animals, using photoreception and vision as a context. This exercise was developed to accompany a physics-based lab (Barney et al. 2009), in which students model the physical relationships of different structural “eye” types. Building on the biodiversity component, students examine simple eyespots (Dugesia); a variety of eyes that use “pinholes” to channel light rays; and the eyes of scallops (Pecten) which include reflective “mirror” surfaces. Students also study microscope slides to examine structure-function relationships in insect compound eyes and to compare the retinas of various vertebrates. Additionally, they dissect a representative mammalian eye (Bos). In an optional investigation, students collect data from humans to test a working hypothesis about the relationship between age and accommodation.

Keywords:  zoology, dissection, photoreceptors, vision, eyes, retina, structure-function relationships, animal anatomy and physiology

Dalhousie University (2010)