THE RABBIT 2I3 



spine above it, the transverse processes corresponding to 

 the ribs and the articular processes on the dorsal side. 

 Compare these parts in size and strength with the corre- 

 sponding parts of the first vertebra studied, and give rea- 

 sons for your conclusions. For what are the processes 

 used ? Compare the cavities above and beneath the centrum 

 with the neural and haemal arches of the fish. (See page 

 159.) Draw the posterior end view of the vertebra under 

 consideration. 



(d) With a scalpel carefully cut away the neural arch 

 and expose the spinal cord. Notice the openings, sinuses, 

 in the sides of the vertebrae where the spinal nerves leave 

 the cord. Remove the cord, noticing carefully which is 

 anterior and which posterior parts. Study the origin of 

 the spinal nerves in the anterior and posterior roots. Draw 

 the segment of cord thus studied. 



(e) Remove the flesh and the hind limbs from the 

 pelvic arch and study the bones which compose it. How 

 many bones? How are they articulated? Are they ver- 

 tebrae? Could they have been specialized from the typical 

 vertebra just studied? Explain what changes have taken 

 place, and give reasons. Draw dorsal and ventral views 

 of the pelvic arch. 



How many bones in the caudal region? Are they ver- 

 tebrae ? Why ? 



(3) — The Limbs. — (a) The bones of the limbs are easily 

 distinguished. In the front limbs the shoulder girdle can 

 be traced, consisting of scapula and clavicle, a small, almost 

 cartilaginous bone, extending through the flesh and uniting 

 with the sternum. Do you find the coracoid bone? What 

 office does it fill? (It is a process extending from the scap- 



