pectoral girdle

views updated May 14 2018

pectoral girdle (shoulder girdle) The bony or cartilaginous structure in vertebrates to which the anterior limbs (pectoral fins, forelegs, or arms) are attached. In mammals it consists of two dorsal scapulae (shoulder blades) attached to the backbone and two ventral clavicles (collar bones) attached to the sternum (breastbone).

pectoral girdle

views updated May 08 2018

pectoral girdle In vertebrates (see CRANIATA), the skeletal structure that provides support for the fore limbs or fins.

pectoral girdle

views updated May 09 2018

pectoral girdle In vertebrates, the skeletal structure that provides support for the fore limbs or fins.