The mammalian skeleton serves several important functions, including:
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Support: The skeleton provides a rigid structure that supports the body, maintaining its shape and allowing for upright posture in terrestrial mammals.
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Protection: It protects vital organs and structures. For example, the skull encases the brain, and the ribcage safeguards the heart and lungs.
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Movement: The skeleton provides attachment points for muscles, enabling movement through the action of muscles contracting and pulling on bones at joints.
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Mineral Storage: Bones serve as a reservoir for minerals, particularly calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for various physiological functions.
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Blood Cell Production: Certain bones contain bone marrow, which is responsible for producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets through the process of hematopoiesis.
These functions collectively contribute to the overall health and functionality of mammalian organisms.