Mammal, larynx & pharynx (Gross, Low)

Structure List Brain Nasal conchae Hard palate Soft palate Tongue Oropharynx Nasopharynx Larynx Esophagus Trachea

A key function of the pharynx and larynx is swallowing. When a food bolus enters the OROPHARYNX, the soft palate elevates to close off the NASOPHARYNX. The oropharynx is tightly closed by the root of the tongue pressing against the ventral surface of the soft palate. As the tongue elevates, the hyoid apparatus moves dorsally and rostrally, pulling the larynx forward, tucking the rostral part of the larynx under the elevated root of the tongue. The root of the tongue presses the epiglottis over the entrance to the larynx. The pharynx is opened by a muscle attached to its roof.