Introduction
Fishes are classified into three main groups-jawless fishes, cartilaginous fishes, and bony fishes. They are classified based on external and internal characteristics.
Task
In this webquest, you will compare the external characteristics of fishes in the three groups. A data table will be created to compare and contrast the different external characteristics.
Process
1. Create a data table in google docs that has the following topics: skin/scales, fin position, fin shape, eyes, mouth shape and teeth, body shape, tail shape, example members of each class (list at least two), picture of members. The three classes of fishes is Class Myxini, Class Agnatha, Class Chondrichthyes, and Class Osteichthyes.
2. Use these websites: http://animals.jrank.org/pages/1944/Hagfishes-Myxini.html, http://www.untamedscience.com/class/chondrichthyes/, http://fsc.fernbank.edu/STT/VertBio/osteichthyes.htm , http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/education/groupsfish/fishgroups.htm. You can also use other websites if needed for pictures and examples.
3. Answer these questions: 1) What are the main external differences between these groups of fishes? 2) Why is it important to examine and compare the internal structures and characteristics of organisms when trying to classify them?
Evaluation
Share your google doc with me, and I will grade you based on creation of table, accuracy of table, and answers of questions in complete sentences.
Conclusion
Good luck, have fun, and learn the different characteristics of fishes!