The Skeleton and its Function
There are two different types of skeleton.
- Exoskeleton - a skeleton found outside the body. Eg: those found in crabs, insects, spiders etc.
- Endoskeleton - a skeleton found inside the body. Eg: those found in mammals, birds, reptiles etc.
We will deal with the endoskeleton in more detail, looking at the human skeleton as an example.
The skeleton has a number of functions.
- Support - the skeleton provides support for the body's organs, enabling it to stand upright.
- Movement - the skeleton provides anchorage for muscles to be able to pull against. The bones also act as levers.
- Protection - bones provide protection for the delicate organs underneath. The skull protects the brain and the ribs protect the heart and lungs for example.
- Mineral storage - the bones are a good storage place for the minerals calcium and phosphate.
- Blood manufacture - the bone marrow found in large bones makes blood cells.
