apophysis

views updated Jun 08 2018

apophysis
1. In vertebrates, a projection from a bone, usually for muscle attachment. VERTEBRAE have pairs of apophyses.

2. In echinoids, an internal projection from one of the interambulacral plates (see INTERAMBULACRUM) around the peristome; apophyses serve for the attachment of the muscles supporting the Aristotle's lantern.

apophysis

views updated May 18 2018

apophysis In the sporophyte of mosses (Musci), a swollen region between the seta and capsule. Its cells are rich in chloroplasts and it contributes to the nourishment of the sporangium.

apophysis

views updated May 08 2018

apophysis (pl. apophyses)
1. An irregular or sheet-like vein or dyke which originates from a larger igneous rock body.

1. See VERTEBRA.

apophysis

views updated Jun 11 2018

apophysis (ă-pof-i-sis) n. a protuberance of bone to which a tendon is attached. a. cerebri the pineal gland.
apophyseal adj.

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