somite
Quick Summary
A somite is a longitudinal block of tissue formed on either side of the embryonic spine. These segments, collectively known as the vertebral plate, are crucial in embryology. From the somites arise the sclerotome, which forms the vertebrae; the dermatome, precursor to skin connective tissue; and the myotome, which develops into the major muscles of vertebrates. The term "somite" can also refer to any body segment in segmented animals.12
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- cephalochordateGeneral features
…include blocks of muscles called metameres. This segmentation also extends to the nerves that supply the myotomes and to some body cavities, excretory structures, and other parts. Segmentation is thought to provide more effective body coordination during locomotion. The segments of vertebrates and cephalochordates are so similar that they were…
Read More…include blocks of muscles called metameres. This segmentation also extends to the nerves that supply the myotomes and to some body cavities, excretory structures, and other parts. Segmentation is thought to provide more effective body coordination during locomotion. The segments of vertebrates and cephalochordates are so similar that they were…
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crustaceanGeneral features…a number of segments, or somites. These somites sometimes are fused to form rigid areas and sometimes are free, linked to each other by flexible areas that allow some movement. Each somite has the potential for bearing a pair of appendages, although in various crustacean groups appendages are missing from…
Read More…a number of segments, or somites. These somites sometimes are fused to form rigid areas and sometimes are free, linked to each other by flexible areas that allow some movement. Each somite has the potential for bearing a pair of appendages, although in various crustacean groups appendages are missing from…
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