Anatomy and Physiology of Animals/Glossary/Book version

A-B WordMeaningAAbdomenThe part of the body below the diaphragmAbomasumThe final compartment of the stomach of ruminants. This the ‘true’ stomach where muscular walls churn the food and gastric juice is secretedAbsorptionPassage of digested food from the gut into the bloodAccessory glandA gland that produces secretions that make up the liquid portion of semenAcetylcholineA neurotransmitter released at a synapseAcousticRelating to soundActive transportThe movement of substances across a membrane against the concentration gradient. Requires energyAdipose tissueConnective tissue in which the cells are filled with fat or lipidAdrenal cortexOuter portion of adrenal glandAdrenal medullaInner portion of adrenal glandAlbuminThe most common of the proteins in the plasmaAldosteroneThe hormone produced by the adrenal cortexAlimentaryConcerning nutritionAlimentary canalThe long canal from the mouth to the anus through which food passes as it is digested and absorbedAlkalineContaining few hydrogen ions. pH above 7AlveolusAn air sac in the lung, where gas exchange takes placeAmino acidsMolecules containing nitrogen that are the building blocks of proteinsAmphibianVertebrate Class containing the frogs and toadsAmylasesEnzymes that split carbohydrates like starch and glycogen into monosaccharides like glucoseAnaemiaA condition involving a low number of red blood cells or haemoglobin in bloodAntagonistic musclesA pair of muscles that work together such that as one contracts the other relaxes and vice versa.AnteriorNearer to the front of the body (usually used in human anatomy)Anterior pituitary glandAnterior portion of pituitary glandAntibodiesProteins made in response to a stimulating molecule called an antigen. The basis for the immune responseAnticoagulantA substance that prevents blood clottingAntidiureticA substance that inhibits urine productionAntidiuretic hormoneA hormone produced by posterior pituitary gland that stimulates water reabsorption from the kidney tubuleAntigensA substance that stimulates the body to produce an antibodyAnusThe opening at the lower end of the rectum through which solid waste is eliminated.AortaThe main artery to body and head from heartApexThe pointed end of a cone shaped structure e.g. heartAppendageA structure attached to the bodyAqueous humorThe watery fluid that fills the anterior chamber of the eyeArterioleA small, almost microscopic, arteryArteryA blood vessel that carries blood away from the heartArticulationThe point of contact between bones. Where they move against each otherAppendageA structure attached to the bodyAqueous humorThe watery fluid that fills the anterior chamber of the eyeArterioleA small, almost microscopic, arteryArteryA blood vessel that carries blood away from the heartArticulateTo move against each other - as of bonesArticulationThe point of contact between bones. Where they move against each other. A joint. Point of contact between 2 bonesAtlasFirst cervical vertebraAtomA unit of matter that comprises a chemical elementAtrioventricular valveA valve that prevents blood flow backwards from ventricle to atriumAtrium (pl. atria)One of two cranial chambers of heartAuditory ossicleOne of 3 small bones in middle earAutonomic nervous systemThe part of the vertebrate nervous system that innervates smooth and cardiac muscle and glandular tissues and governs involuntary actions. Consists of the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system.Axillary lymph nodeA lymph node under junction of forelimb and bodyAxisThe second cervical vertebraAxonA long extension from the neuron that carries nerve impulses away from the cell bodyBall and socket jointA synovial joint where rounded end of one bone fits into cup-shaped depression of anotherBBarbThe part of the feather that sticks out of the shaftBarbulesThe parts of a feather that grow out of the barbs. They have hooks and rolled edges to lock the barbs togetherBasement membraneThe thin membrane between epidermis and dermisBasophilA white blood cell with granules in the cytoplasmBicepsThe muscle that extends from the shoulder to the elbow responsible for flexing the forearmBilateralIncluding both sidesBileAn alkaline secretion from liver that helps break down fats into small dropletsBinocular visionThe placement of the eyes such that both see the same wide area but from slightly different anglesBinomialThe two-part Latinized name of a species, consisting of genus and species namesBlastocystA hollow ball of cells that develop from the fertilized ovumBlind spotThe area of retina at end of optic nerve where there are no receptor cellsBloodThe fluid that circulates in the blood vesselsBlood pressureThe pressure of blood on the walls of the blood vesselsBody cavityA space within the body that contains various organsBowman’s capsuleThe double walled globe at proximal end of nephron. Encloses glomerulusBrain stemThe part of the brain just above the spinal cord. Contains the medulla oblongataBreedA race or varietyBronchioleA branch of the bronchi in the respiratory systemBronchusOne of the large branches of the tracheaBuccalTo do with the mouth C-D WordMeaningCCallusA thickening of the skin or growth of new bone tissue in and around a fractureCaninesThe long, cone-shaped teeth just behind the incisorsCarbohydrateAn organic compound containing carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Made up of sugar subunitsCardiac cycleA complete heartbeat consisting of systole and diastoleCardiac muscleThe muscle that makes up the wall of the heart. Striated branched fibresCardiovascular systemThe body system comprising the heart, blood vessels and bloodCarnassial teethThe modified premolars and molars in carnivores that slice against each other like scissors for shearing flesh and bone.Carotid arteryThe artery from aorta that supplies the head and brainCarpalA bone of the “wrist”CartilageDense connective tissue found at ends of long bones, in trachea, ear pinna. Also forms the skeleton of the foetusCataractA condition in which the lens becomes cloudy resulting in blurred vision.CaudalNearer to the tail thanCaudal vena cavaThe large vein that collects blood from the body caudal to the heartCellThe basic structural and functional unit of all organismsCell divisionThe process by which a cell reproduces itself. Two types: mitosis and meiosisCell inclusionA substance produced by cell that is free in cytoplasm i.e. not enclosed by a membraneCellular respirationThe chemical pathway that produces energy in the cell It consumes a fuel, generally glucose, in the presence of oxygenCentral nervous systemThe part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cordCephalicTo do with the headCerebellumThe part of the vertebrate hindbrain located dorsally; functions in unconscious coordination of movement and balanceCerebral cortexThe surface of the cerebrum; the largest and most complex part of the mammalian brain, containing sensory and motor nerve cell bodies of the cerebrumCerebrospinal fluidThe fluid that circulates around and within brain and spinal cordCerebrumThe dorsal portion of the brain composed of right and left hemispheres; the integrating center for memory, learning, emotionsCervical vertebraeThe neck vertebraeCervixThe neck of the uterusChemoreceptorA receptor that detects chemicalsChorionic gonadotrophinThe hormone secreted by the placenta that prevents uterine contractions before labour and prepares the mammary glands for lactationChoroidThe middle coat of the eyeballChromosomeOne of the small dark staining bodies in the cell nucleus. Contains the DNAChyleThe milky fluid found in the lacteals of the small intestineChymeThe semi fluid mixture of partly digested food and digestive secretions in the stomach and small intestineCilium (pl. cilia)A hair like process projecting from a cell. Used to move cell substances along the surface of the cellClassThe taxonomic grouping of related, similar orders; category above order and below phylumClavicleThe collar boneClotThe process that changes liquid blood to a gelatinous massCoagulationThe process by which blood clotsCoccyxThe tail bonesCoccygeal vertebraeThe vertebrae of the tailCochleaThe coiled tube forming the portion of the inner ear that converts sound waves to nerve impulsesCollagenA protein that is the main organic constituent of connective tissueColonPart of the large intestine.ColostrumThe first milk, it contains antibodies.Common bile ductThe duct that carries both bile and pancreatic juice into the small intestineCompact boneDense bone made up of Haversian systemsConditioned ReflexThe response that is elicited by a stimulus after training has taken placeCondyleA rounded protuberance at the ends of some bones where it forms an articulation with another boneConeA light sensitive receptor in the retina that responds to colourCongenitalPresent at the time of birthConjunctivaThe delicate membrane covering the cornea of the eyeConnective tissueOne of the 4 basic tissue types of the body. Binds and supports. Consists of cells and fibres in a matrixsConstipationDecreased defecation due to decreased mobility of the intestinesContinuous breedingWhen breeding continues throughout the yearCorneaThe transparent anterior layer of the eye through which the iris can be seenCoronary arteryThe artery that supplies the heart muscleCorpus luteumA yellow endocrine gland formed in the empty ovarian follicle after ovulationCortexThe outer layer of an organCostalTo do with a ribCowper’s glandOne of the accessory glands of the male reproductive systemCranialTowards the headCranial nerveOne of the 12 nerves that leave the brainCraniumThe brain case that surrounds and protects the brainCropThe bag-like structure at the base of the oesophagus in birds.In many birds it stores food before it enters the stomachA Crop-milkSecretion produced by glands in the wall of the crop of in pigeons and doves Parents regurgitate it to feed their youngCross sectionCrosswise slice of an animal or organCryptorchidismUndescended testesCutaneousTo do with the skinCytologyThe study of cellsCytosolThe semi fluid portion of the cytoplasmDDehydrationExcessive loss of water from the body or its partsDenaturationDisruption of the structure of a protein by heat, acids etc. to make it inactiveDendriteA nerve cell process that carries the nerve impulses towards the cell bodyDental formulaThe formula that describes the numbers of the different kinds of teethDentineThe tissue below the enamel in teethDermisThe layer of dense connective tissue lying under the epidermisDiabetes insipidusThe condition caused by under secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). Symptom: excretion large amounts dilute urineDiabetes mellitusThe condition caused by under secretion of insulin. Symptoms: raised blood glucose levels, glucose in urineDiaphragmThe dome shaped skeletal muscle separating the thoracic from the abdominal cavitiesDiaphysisThe shaft of a long boneDiarrhoeaFrequent defecation of liquid faecesDiastemaThe space in the jaw in animals that have no (or reduced) caninesDiastoleThe phase of the heartbeat involving the relaxation of the ventriclesDiastolic blood pressureBlood pressure in the arteries between the passage of the pulsesDiffusionA passive process of movement of molecules from a region of high concentration to one of low concentrationDigestionThe mechanical and physical breakdown of foodDigitigrade locomotionLocomotion on the “fingers” as in cats and dogsDilateTo expand or swellDiploidHaving a double set of chromosomes one maternal, one paternalDirectional termsTerms that describe the locations of structures in relation to other structures or locations in the bodyDisaccharidesDouble sugar, consisting of two joined monosaccharidesDistalFarther away from the trunk of the body or point of originDiureticA chemical that reduces Antidiuretic hormone production and increases urine volumeDorsalNearer the back of the animal thanDuodenumFirst part of the small intestine E-F WordMeaningEEcholocationThe use of high frequency sound like sonar and radar by animals (i.e. whales and bats) to locate objects in the surrounding environmentEffectorA muscle or gland that responds to a motor neuron impulseEgestionThe elimination of indigestible waste products from the bodyElectrolyteA compound that separates into charged particles or ionsElectron microscopeA microscope that focuses an electron beam through a specimen, resulting in resolving power a thousandfold greater than that of a light microscopeElementAny substance that cannot be broken down to any other substanceEmbryoThe young of any organism in an early stage of developmentEmulsificationThe breakdown of large fat particles to smaller ones in the presence of bileEnamelThe hard white substance covering the crown of teethEndocrine glandA ductless gland that secretes hormones into the bloodEndometriumThe inner lining of the uterusEndoplasmic reticulumThe network of membranous channels running through the cytoplasm of cellsEndotheliumThe layer of squamous epithelium that lines blood vesselsEnzymeA substance that increases the speed of a chemical reactionEosinophilA white blood cell with granules in the cytoplasmEpidermisThe thin outer layer of the skinEpididymisThe organ composed of convoluted tubules that lies on the border of the testis Where sperm matureEpiglottisThe cartilage on the top of the larynx that closes the windpipe during swallowingEpiphyseal lineThe remnant of epiphyseal plate at end of long boneEpiphyseal plateThe cartilaginous plate at the end of a long bone where bone growth occursEpiphysisThe end of a long boneEpithelial tissueTissue that forms outer part of skin, lines blood vessels, hollow organs and passages in the bodyErythrocyteA red blood cellEssential amino acidsThe 10 amino acids that can not be made by animals and must be acquired in the dietEustachian tubeThe passage connecting middle ear to pharynx. Equalises air pressure in middle and outer earEvolutionAll the changes that have transformed life on Earth from its earliest beginnings to the diversity that characterizes it todayExcretionTo cast out material from the body, cell or tissueExocrine glandA gland that secretes substances into a ductExocytosisThe discharge of substances through the plasma membraneExpirationBreathing outExtensionBending of a joint so that the angle between the bones increasesExtracellular fluidFluid outside body cellsFFacilitated diffusionDiffusion across a membrane using a carrier substanceFallopian tubeA slender tube through which eggs pass from an ovary to the uterusFatsBiological compounds consisting of three fatty acids linked to one glycerol moleculeFeedback systemThe sequence of events where information about the status of a situation is continually fed back to the central control regionFemurThe long bone between the pelvis and the kneeFertilisationPenetration of ovum by sperm and union of nucleiFetlockThe joint between the metacarpals or metatarsals and the phalanges in horseFibrinThe insoluble protein formed from fibrinogenFibrinogenThe protein in blood plasma essential for blood clottingFibulaThe lateral bone of the lower hind limbFiltrateThe fluid produced by filtration of blood in the nephronFlagellumA long hair like process e.g. tail of spermFlexionThe movement involving decreasing the angle between two bonesFluoroxylateAn anticoagulant used for biochemical tests for glucoseFoetusLater stage of development of a young animalFollicleThe cavity surrounding the developing ovumFollicle stimulating hormone (FSH)Hormone secreted by anterior pituitary gland. Stimulates development of ovarian follicleForamenA hole in a bone for passage of vessels or nervesForamen magnumThe hole at the base of the skull for passage of the spinal cordFossaA furrow or shallow depression in a boneFoveaThe area of the retina of greatest concentration of cone cells. Area of sharpest visionFunctional caecumThe enlarged large intestine and caecum occupied by cellulose digesting micro-organisms G-H WordMeaningGGall bladderThe small pouch that stores bileGameteA reproductive cell - sperm or ovumGanglionA group of nerve cells outside central nervous systemGas exchangeThe process in which oxygen from inhaled air is transferred into the blood and carbon dioxide from the blood is transferred into the alveoliGastric juiceThe digestive secretion produced by glands in the wall of the stomachGeneA biological unit of heredityGestationThe period of foetal development inside the uterusGirdleAn encircling or arching arrangement of bonesGizzardThe second part of the stomach of birds. In seed eating birds it contains pebbles and its muscular walls help grind the foodGlandA collection of cells that secrete substancesGliding jointA synovial joint with flat articulating surfaces that permits limited movements e.g. between carpals and tarsalsGlomerular capsuleSee Bowman’s capsule GlomerulusTuft of capillaries surrounded by the Bowman’s capsule in nephronGlottisVocal cordsGlucoseThe smallest sugar. Major energy source for all cellsGlycerolA molecule that combines with three fatty acid molecules to form a fat or oilGlycogenA highly branched polymer of glucose. Energy store in bodyGoitreA condition involving enlargement of thyroid glandGolgi complex apparatusA cell organelle concerned with packaging, processing and secretion of organic moleculesGonadsThe ovary and testesGraafian follicleThe mature ovarian follicleGrey matterArea of the nervous system consisting of cell bodiesGrowth hormoneA hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. Stimulates growth, particularly of the skeletonHHaematocritThe percentage of blood made up of red blood cells. Also called packed cell volume (PCV)HaematuriaUrine that contains red blood cellsHaemoglobinPigment containing iron in red blood cells that allows them to carry oxygenHaemolysisThe escape of haemoglobin from a red blood cellHaemorrhageBleedingHaploidHaving half the normal number of chromosomes, produced by meiosisHaversian canalThe canal down centre of a Haversian systemHaversian systemThe columns of boney tissue that make up compact boneHeparinA naturally occurring anticoagulant. Also used in laboratory tests for heavy metalsHepaticTo do with the liverHepatic portal vesselThe blood vessel that carries blood from the intestines to the liverHinge jointA synovial joint that allows movement in only one plane e.g. elbowHistamineA substance secreted from white cells and platelets that is involved in the inflammatory responseHockThe joint (between the tarsals and metatarsalsHomoiothermic‘Warm-blooded’ animals that regulate their body temperatureHormoneA secretion from an endocrine glandHumerusThe bone of the upper forearm between the scapula and the radius and ulnaHyperglycemiaElevated blood glucose levelHypertensionHigh blood pressureHyperthermiaHigh body temperatureHypertonicHaving an osmotic pressure higher than a solution with which it is comparedHypotensionLow blood pressureHypotonicHaving an osmotic pressure lower than a solution with which it is compared I-J WordMeaningIIleumThe terminal part of the small intestineImmunityBeing resistant to injury or invasion by microorganismsImplantationThe attachment of blastocyst to lining of uterusImpotenceThe inability to copulateIncisorsThe chisel-shaped ‘biting off’ teeth at the front of the mouthInduced ovulationWhen ovulation is stimulated by mating as in cat and rabbitInferiorTowards the lower part of the body. Not used in animals except, perhaps, higher apesInfertilityThe inability to conceive or cause conceptionInflammationA localised protective response to tissue injuryIngestionThe taking in of food, liquids etc.InguinalTo do with the groinInorganicCompounds that lack carbonInsertionThe attachment of a muscle tendon to a bone that movesInspirationBreathing inInsulinA hormone produced by the pancreas. Decreases blood glucose levelsIntercostal musclesThe muscles between the ribs.InternalAway from the surface of the bodyInterstitial fluidExtracellular fluid surrounding the cellsIntervertebral discA pad of cartilage between the vertebraeIntestinal juiceDigestive secretion produced by glands in the lining of the small intestineIntracellular fluidFluid within the cellsInvertebratesAnimals that do not possess a backbone or vertebral columnIonA charged particleIsotonicHaving an osmotic pressure equal to that of a solution with which it is comparedJJejunumThe middle portion of the small intestine K-L WordMeaningKKeelThe breast bone in birdsKeratinA protein found in epidermis, hair, feathers, hoofs etc.KidneyThe organ that produces urineLLachrymal glandThe tear gland of the eyeLactation The secretion and ejection of milk by mammary glands|LactealA lymphatic vessel within the villi of the small intestineLacunaA small hollow spaceLamellaeConcentric rings of hard calcified material found in compact boneLarge intestinePart of the gut consisting of the colon, caecum, rectum and anal canalLarynxThe voice boxLateralAway from the midlineLensTransparent part of the eye that helps focus light rays on the retinaLeukocyteA white blood cellLigamentDense connective tissue that attaches bone to boneLipaseDigestive enzyme that breaks down fats (lipids)LipidFatLiverThe large organ caudal to the diaphragmLongitudinalLengthwise slice of an animal or organLordosis responseStanding firm to pressure on the loin regionLumbarLoin region of the backLumenA space within an artery, vein, intestine or tubeLungThe organs of respirationLuteinising hormoneThe hormone from the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates ovulation and development of corpus luteumLymphTissue fluid that has entered the lymphatic systemLymph nodeA structure that filters lymph and produces lymphocytesLymphatic capillaryThe closed ended microscopic vessel that collects lymph in tissuesLymphatic tissueSpecialised tissue that contains large numbers of lymphocytesLymphatic vesselA large vessel that carries lymphLymphocyteA white blood cell associated with the immune responseLysosomeA cell organelle that contains digestive enzymes M-N WordMeaningMMacrophageA large phagocytic cell present in many tissuesMammary glandThe milk producing glandMandibleThe bone of the lower jawMarrowThe soft sponge like material in the cavities of boneMatrixThe substance of a tissue in which the more specialised structures are embeddedMaxillaThe bone of the upper jawMedialTowards the midlineMediastinumThe tissue that separates the two sides of the lungMedullaInner part of an organMedulla oblongataThe part of the brain stem or hind brainMeiosisThe type of cell division for production of gametes. Halves the number of chromosomesMelaninThe dark pigment in the skin and hairMelatonin The hormone produced by the pineal glandMembraneA thin, flexible sheet of tissueMeningesThe membranes covering the brain and spinal cordMesenteryThe membrane attaching the small intestine to the abdominal wallMetacarpalsThe bones of the “hand”MetastasisThe distant spread of disease especially a malignant tumour from its site of originMetatarsalsThe five bones of the foot that connect the “ankle” to the toesMicrofilamentsA solid contracting strand in the cytoplasm of cells that brings about cell contraction.MicrotubuleA hollow rod of protein in the cytoplasm of all eukaryotic cells and in cilia, flagella, and the cytoskeletonMicrovilliThe microscopic fingerlike projections from the membrane of the cells covering the villi of the small intestineMiddle ear The cavity in the skull between the eardrum and inner ear housing the auditory ossiclesMilk teethThe first set of teeth in a young animalMinute volumeThe volume of air inspired or expired during a minute of normal tidal breathingMitochondrionThe organelle in cell cytoplasm that produces energyMitosisThe cell division for growth and repair. Produces 2 cells identical to parent and each otheMolarsThe more posterior cheek teethMonocyteThe largest leukocyte. It is phagocytic and has no granules in the cytoplasmMonosaccharideThe simplest carbohydrate. Also known as simple sugarMorulaThe solid mass of cells produced by successive divisions of the fertilized ovumMucusA thick fluid secretionMyelinThe fatty insulating coating to an axon of a neuronNNasal cavityThe space just inside the nostrilNegative feedbackControl in which the stimulus initiates actions that reverse or reduce the stimulusNephronThe functional unit of the kidneyNerveA bundle of nerve fibresNerve impulseThe nerve “current’ that passes along a neuronNeuronA nerve cellNeurotransmitterMolecules released at a synapse to transmit the nerve impulse from one neuron to the nextNeutral fatA fat or triglyceride. Biological compound consisting of three fatty acids linked to one glycerol moleculeNeutrophilWhite blood cell with granules in the cytoplasm involved in phagocytosisNictitating membraneThe third eyelid in the cat, tuatara and crocodilesNormal salineA 0.9% solution of sodium chlorideNuclear membraneThe double layered membrane that surrounds the nucleusNucleolusThe spherical body within the nucleus, containing RNANucleusThe spherical or oval body in the cell that contains the DNANutrientA chemical substance in food that provides energy or assists various body processes O-P WordMeaningOExcessive accumulation of fluid in the body tissuesOesophagusThe hollow muscular tube connecting the pharynx with stomachThe female sex hormone produced by ovariesOlfactoryTo do with smellOmasumPart of the modified stomach of ruminants with a folded inner surfaceOpen rooted teethTeeth in which the root opening remains wide. They grow continuously e.g. the incisors of rabbits and ratsOptic NerveThe nerve carrying impulses from the retina of the eye to the brainOrbit The bony cavity in the skull that holds the eyeballOrganA structure with a specific functionOrganelleA structure in the cell with a specific functionOrganicA compound that contains carbon and hydrogen e.g. carbohydrates, lipids and proteinsOrganismA living form. One individualOriginThe attachment of a muscle to a bone that does not moveOsmosisThe movement of water molecules across a semi permeable membrane from an area of high water concentration to an area of low water concentrationOsmotic pressureThe pressure required to prevent water moving across a semi permeable membrane by osmosisOssicleA small boneOssificationThe formation of boneOtolithA particle of calcium carbonate embedded in the membrane of the otolith organ of the inner earOval windowThe small opening between the middle and inner earOvarian cycleThe series of events in the ovary associated with the maturation of the ovumOvarian follicleThe developing ovum with the epithelial tissues surrounding itOvaryThe female gonad that produces ovaOvulationThe release of the ovum from the mature follicle of the ovaryOvumThe egg cell (plural: ova)OxyhaemoglobinHaemoglobin combined with oxygenOxytocinThe hormone from the posterior pituitary gland. Stimulates milk “let down”PPalateThe roof of the mouthPalmarThe “walking” surface of the front pawPancreasThe organ lying along the caudal margin of the stomach. Has endocrine and exocrine functionsPancreatic juiceThe digestive secretion produced by the pancreasParasympathetic divisionOne of the two parts of the autonomic nervous system. Concerned with normal “at rest” activitiesParathyroid glandOne of four small endocrine glands on the dorsal surface of the thyroid glandParathyroid hormoneThe hormone secreted from the parathyroid glandParotid glandOne of the paired salivary glands ventral to the earParturitionThe act of giving birthPatellaThe kneecapPathogenA disease-producing organismPectoralTo do with the chest or breastPelvic cavityThe caudal portion of the abdominal cavity. Contains the bladder, colon and reproductive structuresPelvic girdleThe bony structure formed by the hip bones, sacrum and coccygeal bonesPelvisThe structure formed by the two hip bones, sacrum and coccyxPepsinA protein digesting enzyme secreted by the stomach wallPericardial cavityThe small cavity between the two layers of the pericardial membranesPericardiumThe membrane that encloses the heartPeriosteumThe tough connective tissue covering of a bonePeripheralLocated on the outer part of the bodyPeripheral nervous systemThe part of the nervous system composed of the cranial and spinal nervesPeristalsisThe successive muscular contractions along the wall of the gutPeritoneumThe membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers the abdominal organPermanent teethThe second set of teeth that persist through lifePeyer’s PatchesLarge clusters of lymph nodules found in the wall of the small intestinepHA symbol that indicates the acidity or alkalinity of a solutionPhagocytosisThe process by which cells ingest particles and bacteriaPhalangesThe bones of the “fingers” and “toes”Pharynx The throatPhospholipid bilayerThe arrangement of phospholipids molecules in two layersPhospholipidsMolecules that make up the double layer of biological membranesPhotoreceptorA receptor that detects lightPhotosynthesisThe making of organic molecules by plants using energy from the sunPhysiologyThe science that deals with the functions of an organism and its partsPineal glandThe gland situated in the brain that secretes melatoniPinnaThe projecting part of the external earPinocytosisThe process by which cells ingest liquidPituitary glandThe endocrine gland lying under the caudal surface of the brain attached to the hypothalamus by a stalkPivot jointA synovial joint where a peg of bone articulates with a ring of bone as in the joint between the atlas and axisPlacenta The special structure through which the exchange of materials between the foetus and mother occursPlantarThe “walking” surface of the hind pawPlantigrade locomotionLocomotion involving placing the whole surface of the foot on the ground as in humans and bearsPlasmaThe fluid that surrounds the blood cellsPlasma membraneThe outer membrane surrounding the cellPlateletsCell fragments in the blood essential for clottingPleuraMembranes that cover the lungs and line the walls of the chest and diaphragmPleural cavityThe space between the two layers of the pleuraPlexusA network of nervesPoikilothermic‘Cold-blooded’ animals whose body temperature varies, to a large extent depending on the environmentPolysaccharidesA carbohydrate formed from up to a thousand monosaccharidesPreenTo clean, straighten and fluff feathersPremolarsThe more anterior cheek teethProgesteroneThe hormone produced by the corpus luteumProlactinA hormone produced by the anterior pituitary glandProstate glandThe gland caudal to bladder in malesProteasesEnzymes that split proteins into amino acidsProteinAn organic compound consisting of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen. Made up of amino acidsProximalNearer to the body or to the point of originPulmonaryTo do with the lungsPulp cavityThe cavity within the crown and neck of a tootPulseThe series of waves of high pressure blood passing along an arteryPupilThe hole in the centre of the iris of the eyePus Dead white blood cellsPyloric sphincter The ring of smooth muscle between the stomach and the small intestine Q,R,S WordMeaningRRadiusThe shorter bone of the forelimb between the humerus and the “wrist”ReceptorA specialized cell that responds to specific sensory stimuli such as touch,pressure, light etc.Red marrowBone marrow found in the spaces of spongy bone.Makes red blood cellsReflexA fast automatic response to a stimulusReflex arcConsists of receptor, sensory, relay and motor neurons and effectorRefractionBending of light as it passes from one medium to anotherRelaxinThe hormone secreted by the placenta and ovaries that eases the joint between the right and left pelvis and dilates the cervix for birthRenalTo do with the kidneyRenal pelvisThe cavity in the centre of the kidneyRenal pyramidA cone shaped structure in kidney medullaRenal systemThe body system involving the kidneysReticulumThe part of the modified stomach of ruminants with honeycomb of raised folds on its inner surfaceRetinaThe inner coat of the eyeball. Nerve calls here (rods and cones) respond to light rayRibosomeThe organelle in the cell that makes proteinsRicketsA bone disorder caused by inadequate vitamin DRodThe photoreceptor in the retina, specialized for vision in dim lightRostralTowards the muzzleRumenThe first and largest compartment of the modified stomach of ruminants.It houses the microorganismsRuminantAn animal with a rumen e.g. sheep, cow, camelRuminationChewing the “cud”SSacrumThe triangular bone formed from fused sacral vertebrae.Located between the two hipbonesSagittal planePlane that divides the body into left and right portionsSagittal sectionLengthwise slice of an animal or organSalivaThe secretion from the salivary glandsSalivary amylaseThe starch digesting enzyme in salivaSaturated fatA fat containing saturated fatty acidsScapulaThe shoulder bladeSciatic nerveThe large nerve that passes down the hind legScleraThe fibrous outer coat of eyeballSeasonal breedingBreeding confined to certain seasons of the yearSebaceous glandAn exocrine gland in the dermis of the skin associated with a hair follicleSebumThe waxy secretion from a sebaceous glandSecondary sex characteristicA characteristic that develops at sexual maturity. e.g. large body size of males, manes in lionsSecretionThe production or release of a fluid from a glandSemenThe fluid discharged at ejaculation of male. Consists of sperm and fluidSemicircular canalsThe membranous fluid filled canals containing receptors for equilibriumSemilunar valveThe valve guarding the entrance to the aorta or the pulmonary arterySeminal vesicleA gland that secretes a component of semenSeminiferous tubuleThe tightly coiled duct in the testis where sperm are producedSemi-permeable membraneA membrane that allows some substances to cross more easily than othersSensory neuronA neuron that carries a nerve impulse towards the central nervous systemSerumPlasma minus its clotting proteinsSesamoid bonesSmall bones usually found in tendonsShockReduced cardiac output resulting in failure to deliver adequate oxygen and nutrients to the bodyShoulderThe synovial joint where the humerus joins the scapulaSinusAn air cavity in a bone especially in the bones of the face or skullSkeletal muscleTissue specialized for contraction with striated fibres. Attached to the bones of the skeletonSkullThe skeleton of the headSmall intestineThe long tube of the gut that begins at the stomach and ends at the large intestineSmooth muscleTissue specialized for contraction with spindle shaped non striated fibresSoft palateThe posterior portion of the roof of the mouthSolutionOne or more substances dissolved in a liquidSpecific gravityA measure of the density of a liquid or solid, as compared with that of water.Sperm ductThe tube that carries sperm from the epididymis to the urethra. Also called the vas deferensSpermatic cordThe structure in the male reproductive system attached to the testis that carries the vas deferens, arteries, veins, etc.SpermatozoonA mature sperm cellSphincterA ring-like muscle that controls movement along a body passage or orificeSpinal cordThe mass of nerve tissue in the vertebral columnSpinal nerveOne of the nerves that originate in the spinal cordSpleenThe large lymphatic organ near the stomach that stores blood and produces lymphocytesSpongy boneThe inner layer of bone; found at the ends of long bones less dense than compact boneSquamousScale likeStarchThe storage polysaccharide in plants consisting of many glucose moleculesSterileFree from any living micro organismsSternumThe breastboneStifleThe joint between the femur and the tibia on the hind legStimulusAny change in the environment capable of initiating a nerve impulseStomachThe large baglike part of the gut between the oesophagus and the small intestineStriated muscleStriped or skeletal muscleSubcutaneousBeneath the skinSubmandibular glandThe salivary gland beneath the tongueSubstrateA substance on which an enzyme actsSulcusA groove or depression between the convolutions of the brainSuperficialNearer to the surface ofSutureAn immoveable joint in the skullSympathetic divisionOne of the two subdivisions of the autonomic nervous system concerned with reacting to emergency situationsSynapseThe junction between two neuronsSynovial jointA fully moveable jointSystemAn association of organs that have a common function, e.g. digestive system, respiratory systemSystemic circulationThe blood circulation from the left ventricl through the aorta to all the organs of the body and back to the heart SystoleThe phase of the heartbeat involving contraction of the ventriclesSystolic blood pressureThe blood pressure during passage of the pulseSynapseThe junction between two neuronsSynovial jointA fully moveable joint T,U,V,W,X,Y,Z WordMeaningTTarget cellA cell whose activity is affected by a particular hormoneTarsalsThe bones of the “ankle”TendonsA tough cord of fibrous connective tissue that connects muscles to bonesTestisThe male gonad that produces spermTestosteroneThe hormone produced by the cells between the seminiferous tubules of the testisThoracic cavityThe chest cavity that contains the heart and lungsThoraxThe part of the body between the neck and the diaphragmThymus glandThe organ dorsal to the sternum that is essential to the immune responseThyroid glandThe endocrine gland with lobes on either side of the tracheaThyroxineThe hormone secreted by the thyroid glandTibiaThe medial bone of the lower hind limbTidal breathingNormal at rest breathingTidal volumeThe volume of air breathed in or out in any one “at rest” breathTissueA group of similar cellsTissue fluidPlasma that has left the capillaries and flowed into the spaces between the cells of the tissues; also known as intercellular fluid or interstitial fluidTotal lung capacityThe sum of the tidal volume, inspiratory reserve, expiratory reserve and residual volume of the lungsTracheaThe windpipeTransverseA crosswise slice of an animal or organTricepsThe muscle that extends from the shoulder to the elbow responsible for extending the forearmTriglyceridesA biological compound consisting of three fatty acids linked to one glycerol molecule. A fatTrunkThe part of the body to which the fore and hind limbs are attachedTympanic membraneThe thin transparent membrane of connective tissue between the external ear, canal and the middle ear. Also called the eardrumUUlnaThe longer bone of the forelimb between the humerus and the “wrist”Umbilical cordThe cord containing arteries and vein that attaches the foetus to the placentaUnguligrade locomotionLocomotion on the “fingernails” as in horses and pigsUreaThe soluble excretory product produced when excess amino acids (from proteins) are broken down by the bodyUreterOne of two tubes that connect the kidney with the bladderUrethraThe duct from the bladder to the exterior of the bodyUric acidAn insoluble excretory product produced when excess amino acids(from proteins) are broken down by the bodyUrinalysisThe analysis of urineUrineThe fluid produced by the kidneysUterusThe hollow muscular organ in females where the foetus developsVVaginaThe muscular, tubular organ in the female where sperm are deposited during copulationVagus nerveThe cranial nerve that controls the muscles that bring about swallowing,the muscles of the heart, airways, lungs, stomach and intestinesVane The flat part of a feather emerging from the shaft; there are two vanes per featherVas deferensThe duct that conducts the sperm from the epididymis to the urethraVascularTo do with bloodVasoconstrictionThe decrease in size of the channel down a blood vesselVaso dilationThe increase in size of the channel down a blood vesselVeinA blood vessel that carries blood towards the heartVelvetThe tissue layer that covers antlersVena cavaOne of two large blood vessels that return blood to the heartVentralNearer the belly of the animal thanVentriclesThe caudal chambers of the heartVenuleA small veinVertebral canalThe channel that encloses and protects the spinal cordVertebratesAnimals that have a backbone or vertebral columnVesiclesSmall, intracellular membrane-bound sacVestibular organThe organ of balance – semicircular canals and otolith organVillus (pl. villi)A projection from the lining of the small intestine to help absorb digested food moleculesVisceraThe organs in the abdominal and pelvic cavitiesVisceral skeletonBones formed in the organs of the bodyViscosityThe thickness or stickiness of a liquidVital capacityThe sum of the inspiratory and expiratory reserve volumes and the tidal volumeVital capacityThe volume of the air expired when a maximum expiration follows a maximum inspirationVitaminAn organic molecule necessary in minute quantities for the proper functioning of the chemical processes in the bodyVitreous HumorThe fluid in the posterior chamber of the eyeWWhite matterMasses of myelinated axons located in the brain and spinal cordYYellow marrowBone marrow that is yellow with fat; found at the ends of long bonesZZona pellucidaThe tough layer surrounding the ovumZygoteSingle cell resulting from the union of the sperm and egg