somite

body segment

Also known as: metamere

Learn about this topic in these articles:

definition
- In somite
  The term somite is also used more generally to refer to a body segment, or metamere, of a segmented animal.
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chordates
- In cephalochordate: General 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…
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crustaceans
- In crustacean: General 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…
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