biologicalanatomy

Biological anatomy is the branch of biology that studies the structure of living organisms, from single cells to whole bodies. It investigates how parts are arranged and connected, and how their organization supports function. The field encompasses both animal and plant life, and its hierarchical levels include cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems. Anatomy relies on a variety of observational methods, such as dissection, histology, microscopy, and noninvasive imaging like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). Standardized terminology and anatomical nomenclature enable consistent description across species.

Major subfields include gross or macroscopic anatomy, which examines structures visible without magnification; histology, the study of tissues at the microscopic level; developmental or embryological anatomy, which follows the formation and maturation of structures; comparative anatomy, which analyzes similarities and differences among species; functional or applied anatomy, which links structure to function and biomechanics; and clinical anatomy, which focuses on anatomical knowledge useful in medicine. Plant anatomy—often studied in botany—addresses tissues and organization in roots, stems, leaves, and reproductive structures.

Biological anatomy provides a foundational framework for medicine, veterinary science, zoology, and botany. It underpins educational curricula, surgical planning, and diagnostic imaging. Modern anatomy increasingly employs digital atlases, 3D reconstructions, and imaging datasets to visualize structure noninvasively and to facilitate research and teaching across organisms and developmental stages.