Association for Biology Laboratory Education

Effect of Environment and Modulators on Hindgut and Heart Function in Invertebrates: Crustaceans and Drosophila
 

Rachel Holsinger & Robin L. Cooper

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2012, Volume 33

Abstract

Using preserved animals during teacher-led demonstrations and student experimentation may help students appreciate the anatomy of animals but does not allow them to design experiments to develop an understanding of the physiology. The crayfish hindgut allows for easy physiologic recordings through visually monitoring peristaltic activity, which can be used as a bioassay for various peptides, biogenic amines, neurotransmitters and environmental substances. The neurogenic crustacean and the myogenic Drosophila larva hearts clearly show the affect of environmental stimuli (temperature, CO2) and modulators (serotonin, nicotine) that enter the hemolymph. These robust preparations are well suited for training students in physiology and pharmacology.

Keywords:  physiology, Drosophila, crustaceans, heart, invertebrate

New Mexico State University (2011)