Human BodyReproduction and Human Development |
What are some major developmental events during the embryonic period? |
At the end of the embryonic period (eighth week of development), all of the major external features (ears, eyes, mouth, upper and lower limbs, fingers, and toes) are formed and the major organ systems are nearing completion.
| Major Developmental Events during the Embryonic Period | |
| Time Period | Major Developments |
| Week three | Neural tube, primitive body cavities and cardiovascular system form |
| Week four | Heart is beating; upper limb buds and primitive ears visible; lower limb buds and primitive eye lenses appear shortly after ears |
| Week five | Brain develops rapidly; head grows disproportionately; hand plates develop |
| Week six | Limb buds differentiate noticeably; retinal pigment accentuates eyes |
| Week seven | Limbs differentiate rapidly |
| Week eight | Embryo appears human; external ears are visible; fingers, toes lengthen; external genitalia are visible, but are not distinctly male or female |