myomere

A myomere is a distinct segment of muscle tissue found in the skeletal muscles of many vertebrates, particularly in the trunk and tail. These segments are arranged in a linear fashion along the body. In fish, myomeres are clearly visible as V-shaped or W-shaped blocks of muscle separated by connective tissue called myosepta. This segmented structure is fundamental to the locomotion of many aquatic animals, enabling them to generate propulsive forces through lateral undulations of their body. The contraction and relaxation of individual myomeres, in sequence, creates a wave-like motion that propels the animal forward. While most prominent in fish and larval amphibians, myomeres are also present in the embryonic development of other vertebrates, including mammals, though they become less distinct in the adult form as muscles differentiate and fuse. The arrangement of myomeres can vary between species, influencing their swimming patterns and agility.