craniums

The cranium, also known as the braincase, is the part of the skull that encloses and protects the brain. It is composed of several fused bones, including the frontal bone, parietal bones, temporal bones, occipital bone, sphenoid bone, and ethmoid bone. In adults, these bones are fused together, forming a rigid protective shell. In infants, however, the cranial bones are not fully fused at birth, allowing for growth of the brain. The spaces between these unfused bones are called fontanelles, which are soft spots on a baby's head. These fontanelles gradually close as the bones fuse.

The cranium serves a vital protective function, shielding the delicate brain from injury. It also provides attachment points for muscles of the head and neck. The shape and size of the cranium can vary among individuals and species, reflecting differences in brain size and structure. Forensic anthropology and paleontology often study cranial features to identify individuals, determine ancestry, or understand evolutionary relationships. Changes in cranial morphology over time can indicate evolutionary adaptations and the development of complex cognitive abilities. The study of the cranium is therefore important in various scientific disciplines.