Preserved animals for Biology labs –
individual specimens,
survey sets and
classroom packs.
Dissection instruments including
forceps,
surgeons blades,
dissecting scissors and more,
complete instrument kits for students and instructors. Safety supplies including
goggles, and
eyewash. Our Guarantee
It is difficult to judge how many specimens this year's classes will require. We take the guesswork out of the process by guaranteeing every preserved specimen for two years. If a specimen is damaged or defective, we will immediately replace the item. You can also be assured that if you over ordered for the year, your specimens will still be useable for next year's classes. We guarantee it! Why should you use Dissection in you lab?
Dissection is one of the most vivid parts of any biology course. A long-standing, hands-on, investigative activity for students, it has been taught in thousands of schools, at various levels, as the primary source of learning for anatomy. Students learn basic anatomy in ways that just can't be taught by other means. Dissection places students in a dynamic setting, experiencing first hand observation that cannot be conveyed in written text. Students become engaged in active dialogue of what was seen, touched, and discovered. Under your supervision, this powerful learning experience infuses knowledge, respect, and benefits our society. Dissection also emphasizes the uniqueness of nature. No two similar animals, even though they are perfectly normal, will look exactly the same upon inspection. By comparing different species, the complexity of organisms can be further highlighted and discussed. ABOUT AMERICAN 3B SCIENTIFIC SPECIMENS Specimen Collection
None of the specimens featured here are threatened or endangered species. All specimens are obtained following USDA and Fish and Wildlife regulations. Our trusted and long-standing biological supplier utilizes sound conservation and ecological practices. All specimens are euthanized according to published guidelines, established and advocated by the American Veterinary Association.Specimen Fixation
Fixation of specimens alters proteins to prevent decomposition; all of our specimens are treated with a chemical fixative. Formaldehyde specimens are chemically fixed using dilute(3.5%) formaldehyde. Formaldehyde has been proven over time to be an efficient and stable fixative.
100% Formaldehyde Free Specimens
A revolutionary breakthrough in dissection specimens! 100% Formaldehyde-Free Specimens. This is NOT a reduced formaldehyde specimen. Formaldehyde is NEVER used during any of these specimens' processing.
Specimen Preservation
We NEVER ship specimens in formaldehyde. After fixation almost all specimens are placed in a non-formaldehyde holding or preservation fluid, Delta-Sol. Delta-Sol is a non-toxic preservation fluid that inhibits decay, fungal and bacterial growth and prevents desiccation of the specimen.Labels on all pails detail the contents of the holding solution.
Specimen Injection
Many specimens are offered in a variety of color injections. Colored liquid latex is injected into different sections of a specimen's circulatory system for easy identification. After injection the latex hardens into a non-toxic form with a rubbery-like consistency. Use the following table as a guide to the color coded injections. Note on Invertebrates: Generally one color for the entire circulatory system, color chosen for best visibility.
Plain: No color injections
Double: Arterial systems injected with red latex; Venous system injected with blue latex
Triple: Arterial systems injected with red latex; Venous system injected with blue latex; Hepatic portal system injected with yellow latex
Exception for Sharks:
Double: Arterial system injected with red latex; Hepatic system injected with yellow latex
Triple: Arterial system injected with red latex; Venous system injected with blue latex; Hepatic system injected with yellow latex
Specimen Packaging
Most specimens are offered in your choice of two types of packaging. In some cases we have determined that single packing of specimens offers the best results and, therefore no choice is available.
Wet-Pak packaging is where the specimen is packaged in liquid in a plastic pail or jar. This method provides for convenient storage and re-using specimens but is most costly to ship. Smaller specimens are packaged in vials or jars of varying sizes. All jars have self-sealing lids to eliminate spills. Larger specimens are available in plastic pails in varying sizes with locking lids to prevent leaks.
Vac-Pak specimens are moist packed in a vacuum-sealed Mylar coated polyurethane bag.
No liquid is introduced during packaging. This option offers the advantage of lower shipping costs, but is less convenient for long-term storage and specimen re-usability.
Labeling
Product labels are provided on each container or poly-bag. These labels contain important information - part number, product description, and package quantity - to assist you in verifying your order.
Specimen Safety
We are committed to providing you with specimens safe for dissection in the classroom. Formaldehyde fixed specimens may contain a small amount of residual fixative within the body cavity or as drainage within the poly-bag. We recommend that this residual fixative be removed by rinsing the specimen or poly bag with water. Material Safety Data Sheets accompany each order and should be referred to for specimen specific information.
Specimen Disposal
Our preserved specimens are not considered hazardous waste and normally may be disposed of in the usual solid waste manner. However, as restrictions and regulations vary we suggest contacting your local waste management department to determine appropriate disposal methods.
Technical Assistance
American 3B Scientific sales representatives are available to assist you with any questions you may have regarding our preserved specimens. We are here from 8am - 7pm EST Monday - Friday, call toll free at 1-888-3B-MODELS (326-6335).
