Introduction
The rabbit dissection process is based on the separation of different systems of the carcass and the assessment of their condition. The goal of this report is to study the muscular system of the rabbit, including its main parts and how they function. As materials involved, gloves, scissors, a scalpel, and forceps are used. As a basis, the video with detailed dissection by Alexandra Beasley applied. The rabbit’s muscle structure is special compared to other farm animals.
Procedure of Dissection
To begin with, after cleansing the rabbit carcass from the fur, a longitudinal incision with a scalpel is made from the neck to the pelvic bones on the ventral side. In addition, the skin near the ears is pulled back to expose the muscles in the head. One of the strongest muscles in the rabbit’s body is the masseter, which is located on the cheek (“Rabbit Dissection 1” 00:00:54-00:00:56). This muscle is connected by separate tissues and helps provide the chewing process. The digastric muscles, along with the hyoid muscle, are designed to allow food to pass into the esophagus. Below, in the chest cavity, there is a triangular-shaped muscle, the largest pectoral muscle that helps move the upper limbs. In the region of the ribs, serratus is located, and from the back, in the region of the shoulder blades, one can find rhomboid muscles.
Lab Findings
Various skeletal muscles of the rabbit differ in color intensity; as a result, white and red muscles can be distinguished in the carcass. Typical white muscles are adductor mausoleum, semimembranosus, tender, and some others, and typical red muscles are semitendinosus, gastrocnemius, external chewing, and some others. The highly developed group of adductor muscles of the pelvic limb explains the variety of the rabbit’s movements when digging.
Conclusion
The rabbit’s muscular system is different from that of other farm animals. The features of the masticatory muscles, the presence of a number of small additional muscles that strengthen the scapula, as well as a highly developed group of adductor muscles of the pelvic limb determine these peculiarities. The laboratory dissection has allowed highlighting the differences in muscle tissues and identifying the main muscle groups.
Work Cited
“Rabbit Dissection 1.” YouTube, uploaded by Alexandra Beasley. 2017. Web.