Schematic arrangements of mammalian diaphragms. Modified after Rommel and Reynolds (2000). (A) The typical mammalian diaphragm extends ventrally from the dorsal midline to attach to the sternum. The typical diaphragm is a separator between the heart and lungs in the front and the liver and other abdominal organs in the back. (B) The manatee diaphragm extends dorsally to the heart and does not touch the sternum. There is a mechanical barrier between the heart and the liver and other abdominal organs, but it is a relative/ weak barrier called the transverse septum.
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