Question

A vertebra having convexity both in front and behind is
A. Acoelous
B. Procoelous
C. Amphicoelous
D. Amphiplatyan

Answer 1

Hint: It is also known as human vertebra. These vertebrae are flattened on both ends.

Complete Answer:
The Vertical column is part of the axial skeleton that helps the body weight and balances the body on its axis. Primitive chordates had a single rod-like notochord as an axial skeleton but it was replaced in later groups by a vertebral column along with a series of vertebrae, improving body flexibility and bending.

1) Acoelous is a kind of vertebrae present in most mammals, in which the ends of the centrum are flat, and the vertebrae are separated by an intervertebral disc. These kinds of vertebrae have convexity both in front and behind.
2) Procoelous is a type of vertebrae in most reptiles, wherein the anterior end is concave and the posterior end is convex. Procoelous vertebrae are found in the frogs and most reptiles.
3) Amphicoelous is a type of vertebrae in most fish and amphibians, in which the centre is spindle-shaped and the notochord runs through the center. This vertebra has a concave depression at both ends.
4) Amphiplatyan vertebrae are flat on each side as in mammals. This kind of vertebra is good for dealing with compressive forces. The amphiplatyan vertebrae is a feature of mammals and thus, vertebrae inside the human spine are an example of it.

Thus, the correct answer is A. Acoelous.

Note: The vital part of a vertebra is known as the centrum. The structure of a centrum's anterior and posterior faces, through which it articulates with other vertebral bodies, defines the flexibility and strength of the vertebral column partially or in part.