Bifurcium

Bifurcium

A bifurcium is an anatomical term, primarily used in paleontology, referring to a forked bone or skeletal element. The term implies a splitting or division into two branches or prongs at one end of the bone. It is derived from the Latin word "bifurcus," meaning "two-forked."

The presence of a bifurcium can be a significant characteristic in identifying and classifying certain extinct animals. The specific structure and location of the bifurcium within the skeleton can provide clues about the animal's evolutionary history, biomechanics, and lifestyle. While not a common anatomical structure, its presence is notable in certain species. The term is also sometimes used more broadly to describe any forked or branching structure, though its formal application is primarily within skeletal anatomy.