What is skeleton?

Skeleton, in anatomy, is the rigid structure of an organism that provides support and protection for the body. It consists of bones that are held together by ligaments and muscles, and it forms the framework of the body. The skeleton also protects vital organs, such as the heart, lungs, and brain, and helps to provide mobility and support for movement.

Skeletons can be classified into two main types:

- Exoskeletons,

which are external, such as the shells of insects and crustaceans, and

- Endoskeletons,

which are internal, such as the bones of vertebrates.

Functions of Skelton:

- Support: The skeleton provides support to the body and helps it maintain its shape. It acts as a framework that holds all the organs in place and prevents them from collapsing.

- Protection: The skeleton protects vital organs from injury. The skull, for example, protects the brain, while the rib cage protects the heart and lungs.

- Movement: The skeleton provides a system of levers that allows the body to move. Muscles attach to the bones and pull on them to produce movement.

- Storage: Some bones store minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for the body's growth and repair.

- Blood Production: The bone marrow, located inside some bones, produces red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Types of Skeletons:

- Endoskeleton: An endoskeleton is an internal skeleton, made of bone and cartilage, that is found in vertebrates. The endoskeleton provides support, protection, and movement for the body.

- Exoskeleton: An exoskeleton is an external skeleton, made of a hard material such as chitin or calcium carbonate, that is found in invertebrates. The exoskeleton provides support and protection for the body.

- Hydrostatic Skeleton: A hydrostatic skeleton is a fluid-filled body cavity that provides support for the body. Hydrostatic skeletons are found in some invertebrates, such as jellyfish and worms.

Conclusion

The skeleton is an essential part of the body that provides support, protection, and movement. It is a complex structure that consists of bones, ligaments, and muscles, and it plays a vital role in maintaining the body's overall health and functioning.