Parasphenoid

Bone in the skull of vertebrates

General Information
Latin	os parasphenoidale
Greek
TA98
TA2
FMA
Details
System	Skeletal system
Artery
Vein
Nerve
Lymphatic drainage
Precursor	Neural crest
Function
Identifiers
Clinical significance
Notes

The parasphenoid is a bone found in the skull of many vertebrates. It is typically located on the ventral side of the skull and is part of the neurocranium. The parasphenoid bone is an important structure in the anatomy of fishes, amphibians, and some reptiles.

Structure

The parasphenoid is a median bone that lies beneath the braincase. It often extends from the region of the sphenoid bone to the occipital bone. In many species, it provides support for the brain and serves as an attachment point for various muscles.

Development

The parasphenoid bone develops from the neural crest cells during embryogenesis. It is one of the first bones to ossify in the developing skull of many vertebrates.

Function

The primary function of the parasphenoid is to provide structural support to the skull. It also plays a role in the protection of the brain and the sensory organs housed within the skull.

Evolutionary significance

The presence and structure of the parasphenoid bone can vary significantly among different vertebrate groups, reflecting its evolutionary adaptations. In bony fish and amphibians, the parasphenoid is often well-developed, whereas in mammals, it is typically reduced or absent.

See also

• Sphenoid bone
• Neurocranium
• Vertebrate anatomy

External links

• Parasphenoid on WikiMD