proatlas

A small, paired bony element (more rarely, having fused parts) located between the skull and the atlas in tuataras, crocodiles, chameleons, and many fossil reptiles; it is uncommon in turtles and mammals (hedgehog). The proatlas apparently develops from the ossified neural part of the sclerotome. Externally it resembles the neural arch of the vertebra, since it articulates anteriorly with the lateral occipital bone and posteriorly with the anterior articular process of the atlas.

Type Bone
Parent Structure cervical vertebra

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the proatlas?
A small, paired bony element (more rarely, having fused parts) located between the skull and the atlas in tuataras, crocodiles, chameleons, and many fossil reptiles; it is uncommon in turtles and mammals (hedgehog). The proatlas apparently develops from the ossified neural part of the sclerotome. Ex

Related Structures

1st arch mandibular component ventral mandibular arch 1st arch mandibular ectoderm ectoderm of mandibular component 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme mandibular component mesenchyme 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme from head mesenchyme 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme from neural crest 1st arch maxillary component 1st arch maxillary ectoderm ectoderm of maxillary component 1st arch maxillary-mandibular cleft 1st arch maxillary-mandibular groove ectoderm

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Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.