ECTOPECTORALIS Meaning and
Definition
-
Ectopectoralis is a term used in anatomy to describe a specific muscle found in certain animal species, particularly in fish, birds, and some reptiles. The word is derived from the Greek words "ecto," meaning outer, and "pectoralis," referring to the muscles on the chest or pectoral region of an animal.
The ectopectoralis muscle is located on the external surface of the pectoral girdle and extends outward towards the outer body wall. Its location and structure can vary among species, but its primary function is related to the movement and control of the forelimbs or pectoral fins.
In fish, including both ray-finned and lobe-finned varieties, the ectopectoralis muscle assists in moving the pectoral fins, aiding in swimming, maneuvering, and stabilizing the body.
In birds, the ectopectoralis muscle is highly developed and plays a crucial role in powering the flapping motion of the wings during flight. This muscle generates the necessary force for wing movement, allowing birds to achieve lift and sustain flight.
The ectopectoralis muscle may also be present in certain reptiles, contributing to the control and coordination of forelimb movements for both terrestrial locomotion and climbing behaviors.
Overall, the ectopectoralis muscle is an essential anatomical structure found in various animals, providing the means for effective movement and function of the forelimbs or pectoral fins.
-
The outer pectoral muscle, pectoralis major.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ECTOPECTORALIS
- ectopectoraliq
- ectopectoralir
- ectopectoaralis
- ectwopectworalis
- ectoopectooralis
- ectopectauralis
- e ctopectoralis
- ec topectoralis
- ect opectoralis
- ectope ctoralis
- ectopec toralis
- ectopect oralis
- ectopecto ralis
- ectopector alis
- ectopectora lis
- ectopectoral is
- ectopectorali s
Etymology of ECTOPECTORALIS
The word "ectopectoralis" combines two root words, "ecto-" and "pectoralis". Here is the breakdown:
1. "Ecto-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "ektos", meaning "outside" or "outer". It is commonly used in scientific and medical terminology to refer to things that are external or located on the outside.
2. "Pectoralis" is derived from the Latin word "pectus", which means "breast" or "chest". In anatomy, the term "pectoralis" typically refers to the muscles of the chest or pectoral region.
Therefore, the word "ectopectoralis" essentially conveys something located on the outside of the pectoral or chest region.
