External surface
Facies externa
Definition
The external surface of the parietal bone, generally convex, can be divided into two planes, a parietal plane and a temporal plane, separated by the temporal line.
The parietal plane forms the dorsomedial walls of the neurocranium.
The temporal plane forms the ventrolateral walls of the neurocranium, and it is here that the temporal fossa is located, providing attachment for the temporalis muscle.
Variation:
In carnivores, equids, and camelids, the parietal plane is triangular with its apex caudally, and an external sagittal crest is formed by the union of the two temporal lines. This crest extends to the external occipital protuberance, passing between the temporal fossae.
References
Barone R. Anatomie comparée des mammifères domestiques, Tome 1, Ostéologie, 5th edition, Vigot, Paris, 2017.
Constantinescu GM, Schaller O. Illustrated veterinary anatomical nomenclature, 3rd Edition, Enke Verlag, Stuttgart, 2012.
König HE, Lieibich HG. Veterinary Anatomy of Domestic mammals, 6th edition, Schattauer, Stuttgart, 2014.
