Body cavity

Body cavity is a term used in anatomy to describe the internal spaces of an organism's body. In humans and many other animals, the body cavity houses and protects the internal organs.

Definition

A body cavity is a fluid-filled space inside the body that holds and protects internal organs. Human body cavities are separated by membranes and other structures. The two largest human body cavities are the ventral cavity and the dorsal cavity.

Types of Body Cavities

There are several types of body cavities in the human body.

Ventral Cavity

The ventral cavity is located at the front of the body and is divided into two main cavities: the thoracic cavity and the abdominopelvic cavity. The thoracic cavity houses the heart and lungs, while the abdominopelvic cavity houses the digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.

Dorsal Cavity

The dorsal cavity is located at the back of the body and is divided into the cranial cavity, which houses the brain, and the spinal cavity, which houses the spinal cord.

Other Cavities

Other smaller cavities include the oral cavity, nasal cavity, middle ear cavities, and orbital cavities.

Functions of Body Cavities

Body cavities serve several important functions in the body. They:

• Protect delicate organs from shocks and impacts
• Allow organs to change size and shape without distorting other tissues or organs
• Provide a space for organs to move

See Also

• Coelom
• Pleural cavity
• Peritoneal cavity