An Overview of the Skeletal System

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The skeletal system is often viewed as a singular form; a system that has no variation, nor functions other than movement. The truth of the matter is that the skeletal system takes many forms in various species, and serves with various functions. Although movement is a major function of the skeletal system, one cannot discount the other advantages and necessities of having a complete set of functioning bones. One of the most common types of skeletons is the “exoskeleton”, which is found on creatures that have an external shell, or “suite of armor.” (Hoefnagels). In this structure, the animal has an internal muscular system which pulls on the skeleton, creating motion within the body.
In all species of vertebrates, the skeleton serves as a mold and pattern for the shape that the body will take; there are various types of skeletons, which serve individual purposes. For instance, the hydrostatic skeleton retains fluid (water) within the flexible layers of tissue to form a more flexible body; jellyfish have what is known as a “bell”, or a “…gelatinous substance constrained between t...

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