Vascular system
- Pronunciation
- /vas-kew-lar sys-tem/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Vascular system
- Plural
- Vascular systems
Definition
In higher animals, the vascular system typically refers to the network of vessels carrying blood or fluids like hemolymph. However, in the context of arthropods such as insects and arachnids, it generally refers to the hemolymph circulatory system, as they lack a true vascular system like that of vertebrates.
Etymology
From Latin 'vascularis', meaning 'of or relating to vessels', and 'systema', meaning 'a set of interconnected parts'.
Example
The circulatory system in insects consists of a dorsal vessel (heart) and a network of open-ended arteries.
Related Terms
- Hemolymph
- Circulatory system
- Open circulatory system
Usage Notes
Insects have an open circulatory system, meaning their hemolymph flows freely through the body cavity.