dorsal-ventral axis

The dorsal-ventral axis refers to the directional orientation in animals, distinguishing the back (dorsal) from the belly (ventral). In most animals, the dorsal side typically faces upwards or away from the ground, while the ventral side faces downwards or towards the ground. This concept is important in anatomy and biology as it helps to understand the structure and organization of various organisms, influencing how their bodies are built and how they move. Essentially, it’s a way to describe the top-bottom layout of the body in relation to its environment.