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Rib | |
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![]() Collection of single ribs in the Faculty of Education of Charles University | |
![]() Animation of all ribs, including the false ones in humans | |
Details | |
Identifiers | |
Latin | costae |
MeSH | D012272 |
TA98 | A02.3.01.001 A02.3.02.001 |
TA2 | 1105, 1118 |
FMA | 7574 |
Anatomical terminology |
In vertebrate anatomy, ribs (Latin: costae) are the long curved bones which form the rib cage, part of the axial skeleton.[1] In most tetrapods, ribs surround the thoracic cavity, enabling the lungs to expand and thus facilitate breathing by expanding the thoracic cavity. They serve to protect the lungs, heart, and other vital organs of the thorax. In some animals, especially snakes, ribs may provide support and protection for the entire body.