Dissection Resources - Biology by Design

Tools for Dissection:

In the image above, looking from the left toward the right, we see two kinds of scalpels, then two kinds of "pickups" or forceps and on the far right are scissors. In most cases, you are going to use forceps and scissors much more than the other. The second scalpel is unusual and is not a standard part of most student dissection kits. Not pictured are fine needles with wooden or plastic handles. These are handy for teasing apart organs to separate and identify them. They also can be used to tear through thin membranes that cover many internal organs.

Safety in Handling Scalpels:

When not being used, scalpels should be place on the working surface. Do not gesture with them when conversing with a lab partner.
Scalpels should be held with the blunt end secured in your palm. Do not hold a scalpel like a pencil or pen. The reason for this is that preservative fluids on specimens can make your instruments slippery. It is distressing if, while applying pressure on the scalpel, your fingers slide down the handle of the scalpel and onto the blade.

Specimen Vendors:

These vendors are excellent providers of specimens, dissecting tools and dissecting guides. I would suggest that for any selection, compare prices and volume. If you are part of a school or home-school coop, there are cost advantages to ordering in bulk.

Biology Products: https://biologyproducts.com/

Carolina: https://www.carolina.com/

Home Science Tools - Biology: https://www.homesciencetools.com/biology/