In a vertebrate which germ layer forms the skeletal muscles ?

Options

A. ectoderm
B. endoderm
C. mesoderm
D. both (1) and (2)

Answer

To answer the question "In a vertebrate which germ layer forms the skeletal muscles?", we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Germ Layers**:
- In vertebrates, there are three primary germ layers formed during embryonic development: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm.
- Each germ layer gives rise to different tissues and organs in the body.

2. **Identifying the Germ Layers**:
- **Ectoderm**: This is the outermost layer and primarily forms the skin and nervous system.
- **Endoderm**: This is the innermost layer and forms the lining of the digestive tract and some internal organs.
- **Mesoderm**: This is the middle layer and is responsible for forming muscles, bones, and the circulatory system.

3. **Focusing on Skeletal Muscles**:
- The question specifically asks about skeletal muscles.
- Skeletal muscles are a type of muscle tissue that is primarily responsible for voluntary movements.

4. **Determining the Origin of Skeletal Muscles**:
- Skeletal muscles are derived from the mesoderm germ layer.
- This layer gives rise to not only skeletal muscles but also other structures such as connective tissues and bones.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that skeletal muscles in vertebrates are formed from the **mesoderm**.

### Final Answer:
The germ layer that forms the skeletal muscles in a vertebrate is the **mesoderm**.

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