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What is Nose Called in Biology?

Published in Anatomy 1 min read

In biology, the nose and its associated structures are often referred to as the sinonasal tract or sinonasal region.

This term encompasses not only the external nose but also the internal nasal cavity and the paranasal sinuses. The sinonasal region is recognized for its complex anatomy and crucial functions, including:

  • Olfaction (smell): Sensory receptors in the nasal cavity detect odors.
  • Respiration: The nose warms, humidifies, and filters air before it reaches the lungs.
  • Protection: The nasal cavity traps pathogens and irritants.
  • Voice resonance: The sinuses contribute to the sound of our voice.

The sinonasal tract includes several key structures:

  • Nasal Cavity: The internal space of the nose, divided by the nasal septum.
  • Nasal Conchae (Turbinates): Bony shelves that increase the surface area of the nasal cavity, improving warming and humidification.
  • Paranasal Sinuses: Air-filled cavities located in the skull around the nose, including:
    • Frontal sinuses
    • Sphenoid sinuses
    • Ethmoid sinuses
    • Maxillary sinuses

These sinuses drain into the nasal cavity.

Therefore, while "nose" is the common term, the more precise biological term for the nose and its related structures is the sinonasal tract or sinonasal region.