Tragicus

Muscle of the human body

The tragicus is a small muscle located in the human ear. It is part of the group of muscles known as the auricular muscles, which are responsible for the movement of the external ear.

Anatomy

The tragicus muscle is situated on the outer ear, specifically on the tragus, which is the small pointed eminence of the external ear that is located in front of the concha. The muscle fibers of the tragicus run vertically and are attached to the cartilage of the tragus.

Diagram of the ear, showing the location of the tragus.

Function

The primary function of the tragicus muscle is to assist in the movement of the tragus. Although the auricular muscles, including the tragicus, are generally considered vestigial in humans, they can still contribute to subtle movements of the ear in some individuals. These movements can help in directing sound into the ear canal.

Clinical significance

The tragicus muscle is not typically involved in any major clinical conditions. However, its location and function can be of interest in certain surgical procedures involving the ear, such as otoplasty or reconstructive surgeries.

Related structures

The tragicus is one of several muscles associated with the auricle of the ear. Other related muscles include the helicis major, helicis minor, and the antitragicus. These muscles work together to provide movement to the external ear.

Muscles of the auricle, including the tragicus.

Related pages

• Auricular muscles
• Tragus (ear)
• Human ear

References

• Gray, Henry. Anatomy of the Human Body. 20th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger, 1918.
• Standring, Susan, ed. Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st ed. Elsevier, 2016.