Procoely

Procoely is a term used in paleontology and comparative anatomy to describe a specific type of vertebral articulation. In procoelous vertebrae, the centrum, which is the main body of the vertebra, is concave at the anterior (front) end and convex at the posterior (rear) end. This configuration allows for a significant range of motion between adjacent vertebrae, particularly in flexion and extension.

This type of vertebral structure is common in many groups of reptiles, including lizards, crocodiles, and turtles. It is also found in some extinct groups like dinosaurs. The arrangement facilitates flexible movement in the vertebral column, which is advantageous for locomotion and other behaviors. The concave anterior surface of one vertebra fits snugly into the convex posterior surface of the next, forming a ball-and-socket-like joint. This contrasts with other types of vertebral articulations, such as amphicoelous (concave at both ends) or opisthocoelous (convex anteriorly, concave posteriorly). The specific morphology of procoely allows for a controlled yet dynamic connection between the vertebrae, contributing to the overall agility and maneuverability of the animal.