Human Osteology (T.Y.B.Sc.) Dr. Rahul B. Patil Department of Zoology Veer Wajekar ASC College, Phunde

Overview of Skeleton

Skull Bones

(i) Cervical Vertebrae: 7 in number present in the neck, first cervical vertebra is called atlas, second cervical vertebra is known as axis. The atlas supports the head and is named for the mythological Atlas who supported the world on his shoulders. The atlas lacks body (centrum) and a spinous process. The axis has a peg like process called the odontoid process.

(ii) Thoracic Vertebrae: 12 in number present in the chest. They are larger and stronger than cervical vertebrae. They articulate with ribs. (iii) Lumbar Vertebrae: 5 in number present in the abdomen. They are largest and strongest in the vertebral column. Their processes are short and thick. The spinous pro­cesses are thick and broad and project posteriorly.

(iv) Sacrum: The five sacral vertebrae are fused in the adult, forming one structure called the sacrum, which lies between the innominate bones of the pelvic girdle. The female sacrum is shorter, wider than the male sacrum. (v) Coccyx: The four coccygeal vertebrae are fused to form a curved triangular bone, called the coccyx. In female, the coccyx points inferiorly but in male it points anteriorly. It is considered as a vestigial tail

Pectoral Girdle

Pelvic Girdle

Bones of Forelimb

Humerus

Radius and Ulna

Bones of wrist (Carpals)

Metacarpals

Bones of Hind limb

Femur

Tibia and Fibula

Tarsals

Metatarsals

Phalanges of Foot