Open the windows for ventilation during this lab.
DNA forms the recipes for many adaptations in kingdom Animalia. One example of a common recipe used for different purposes is keratin. Keratin is a protein formed by a sequence of amino acids dictated by DNA.
Keratin forms the hair of primates, canines, felines, all mammals. Keratin also forms the scales of a fish, the feathers on a bird. The soft keratin in birds and mammals is called alpha keratin. The harder keratin on a fish or a reptile is called beta keratin.
This website explains the difference
Examine the variety of forms in the feather samples in the lab. Look at these under the dissecting microscope. Wash your hands after handling these feathers and note that all feathers are part of a collection that was assembled prior to 2018 and thus unexposed to current avian flu outbreaks in the lower mainland
Draw 3 samples of feather and answer the following questions: Each drawing ought to be half a page.
1. Which feathers look like they are good for insulation? These areas would be soft and fine, with the ability to trap air pockets
2. Which feathers look like they might be good for catching wind for gliding or flying? These feathers can zip together and come apart alike a zipper.
3. What are the differences that you can observe on these feathers? How are the feathers different in shape, texture, colour? What is the purpose of colour for a bird? How can colour on a bird feather help a bird survive in the wild?
Examine the Fish Scale under the microscope: Draw two views. Each drawing ought to be half a page.
1. What is the purpose of the fish scale? How can this scale protect the fish?
2. Some scales are iridescent or they catch light in different ways. Adjust the light levels under the microscope and see what you can find for interesting perspectives on this piece of fish anatomy.
