Thorax facts for kids

The thorax is a very important part of an animal's body. It is the middle section, located between the head and the abdomen. Think of it as the chest area in humans or the main body part where legs attach in insects!

In this insect diagram, the thorax is the section labelled B, between the head and the abdomen.

The Thorax in Mammals

In mammals, like humans, the thorax is often called the chest. It holds many vital organs, such as the heart and lungs.

Parts of the Mammal Thorax

The main parts that make up the thorax in mammals are:

• The sternum: This is the flat bone in the middle of your chest, often called the breastbone.
• The thoracic vertebrae: These are the bones of your spine that are located in your chest area.
• The ribs: These are the curved bones that form a cage around your chest, protecting your organs.

The mammal thorax starts from the neck and goes down to the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a strong muscle that helps you breathe.

The Thorax in Insects and Crustaceans

In insects and crustaceans (like crabs and lobsters), the thorax is the middle of their three main body sections. It connects the head to the abdomen.

Legs and Wings

For insects and crustaceans, the walking legs are usually attached to the thorax. In insects, the wings are also found on the thorax, allowing them to fly!

Related pages

• Chest

Images for kids

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  An X-ray of a human chest area, with some structures labeled.

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  A 3D scan of the thorax, showing blood vessels and airways.

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  Thorax. Anterior view.

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  Thorax. Anterior view.

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  Clearly visible thorax of an artistic gymnast.

See also

In Spanish: Tórax para niños