Once in the lab we discussed that lobsters are in a group of animals called Arthropods. Arthropods have jointed legs and a hard exoskeleton. We had a show and tell with lobsters and other arthropods including rock crabs, hermit crabs, green crabs, toad crabs and barnacles. We looked at the anatomy and how to tell if these animals are female or male. We also demonstrated how to hold the arthropods safely.
We then had a look at barnacles feeding and made a craft to study their anatomy. Just before lunch we played a lobster claw game. Did you know that lobsters can be left or right handed?
After lunch it was low tide so we went out to explore the intertidal zone. The children had a great time looking under the rocks and amongst the seaweed for live creatures. We found green crabs of all sizes, worms, rock gunnel fish, sideswimmers, periwinkles, a dogwinkle, and barnacles. Back in the lab the children had a chance to study and observe the animals they collected.
Below are some photos from the program.
Lobsters can regenerate parts of their body including claws, legs and antennae (note the soft red nub where one of the antenna is growing back).
Touching the lobster and getting familiar with holding them.
Touch tank of crabs in the lab.
Watching the barnacles feeding.
Studying barnacles through crafting.
Exploring the intertidal zone at low tide.
Sunshine!
We found many fish called rock gunnels under the rocks.
One of the students found a clam worm.
Lots of green crabs were found, including a few females with eggs sacs underneath their tails.
Having a closer look at all of the animals and shells that we found in the intertidal zone.
Thank you to those that attended! More information about our Young Explorer programs can be found on our website.
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