Cloacal membrane
Cloacal Membrane
The Cloacal Membrane (kloh-ay-kal mem-brane) is a thin membrane that forms during the embryonic development of mammals, birds, and reptiles. It is the location where the urinary, reproductive, and intestinal tracts meet before they separate into distinct organs.
Etymology
The term "cloacal" is derived from the Latin word cloaca, which means "sewer". This is in reference to the membrane's function as a common pathway for waste and reproductive fluids in the early stages of embryonic development.
Structure and Function
The Cloacal Membrane is formed during the third week of embryonic development. It is created by the meeting of the Endoderm and Ectoderm, two of the three primary germ layers in the early embryo. The membrane serves as a temporary structure, eventually rupturing to allow the formation of the Anus and the Urogenital opening.
Related Terms
- Endoderm: The innermost of the three primary germ layers in an embryo. It forms the lining of the digestive tract and its associated structures.
- Ectoderm: The outermost of the three primary germ layers in an embryo. It forms the skin, nervous system, and other external structures.
- Anus: The opening at the end of the digestive tract where waste leaves the body.
- Urogenital opening: The opening through which urine and, in some animals, reproductive fluids are expelled.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cloacal membrane
- Wikipedia's article - Cloacal membrane
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