Plain Crayfish Dissection Specimen for Biology Labs | Arthropod Anatomy
We have two size options, which you can select from the drop-down menu to the right:
- 3-4 inch
- 4-6 inch
This preserved crayfish dissection specimen is an excellent choice for activities requiring the dissection of an arthropod and is widely used in middle school and high school biology labs to teach arthropod and crustacean anatomy. Crayfish are ideal model organisms because their segmented body plan and well-defined organ systems allow students to clearly observe how invertebrates are structured and how their systems function together. Each specimen is prepared to maintain clear visibility of anatomical features, making it well suited for hands-on classroom dissection focused on observation, labeling, and comparison.
Crayfish Anatomy Structures (External & Internal):
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Cephalothorax
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Abdomen
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Antennae
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Antennules
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Mouthparts
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Compound eyes
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Chelipeds
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Walking legs
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Swimmerets
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Exoskeleton
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Stomach
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Intestines
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Digestive glands
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Gills
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Muscles
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Ventral nerve cord
This preserved crayfish specimen for dissection supports instruction in invertebrate biology and comparative anatomy, making it an excellent choice for anatomy labs, life science courses, and homeschool science programs. Specimens are individually vacuum sealed for convenience and cleanliness. They are initially preserved in formaldehyde to fix tissues, then thoroughly rinsed with water and packed in a low-odor, non-toxic holding solution to ensure safe handling and long-lasting educational use.
Did You Know? Crayfish must molt their hard exoskeleton in order to grow. After molting, their new shell is soft, leaving them temporarily vulnerable until it hardens—an important concept when studying arthropod growth and survival.
Store specimens at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze or expose to high temperatures (more than 85°F). Specimens will last 12 months when left unopened. After opening, the specimen should be placed in a zip-top bag and may be kept for up to one month.
Discounts available for purchases of 10 or more crayfish specimens!
