How to dissect a worm?

External Anatomy

• Place your preserved earthworm on a dissection tray or a clean, flat surface.
• Find the anterior (front) end of the earthworm by identifying the fleshy bump over its mouth, known as the prostomium.
• Identify the posterior (back) end, which has a small hole called the anus for expelling solid waste.
• Note that the worm's body is composed of many tiny segments, each separated by a thin wall called a septum.
• About one-third of the way back from the mouth, you should see a thicker and smoother section of the worm. This is called the clitellum, and it is involved in reproduction.
• Observe that the earthworm has a rounded dorsal (back) surface and a flatter ventral (belly) surface. Typically, the dorsal surface is darker than the ventral surface. Use your finger to lightly rub along the ventral side toward the posterior end of the worm. 
• You should feel a roughness caused by tiny bristles called setae. Setae are tiny bristles that are located on the ventral side of the worm. Use a magnifying glass to get a closer look at the setae.
• Identify the nephridiopores, These are small openings on the sides of the worm that are used to excrete waste
• Near the front end of the worm, you should see some larger pores that can be easily seen without magnification. These are genital pores and play a role in reproduction.

Use a diagram or notes to record what you observe during the dissection. Pay attention to the location and structure of each organ.

Always follow safety guidelines and ethical considerations when working with live or preserved organisms.

Dissection Procedure: Internal Anatomy

1. Place the worm on a tray with its back and secure each end with pins.
2. Begin the dissection about an inch behind the clitellum (a swollen area). Lift the skin using forceps, make an opening with scissors, and cut straight up towards the mouth.
3. Be careful not to cut too deep; only cut the skin to avoid damaging the internal organs.
4. Use forceps and pins to gently separate the two skin flaps of the worm.
5. Flatten and secure these flaps on the tray. It may be necessary to sever the septum walls with a pin in order to spread the skin more easily.