1. having a distinct upper (dorsal) and lower (ventral) surface that differ in structure or appearance
Usage: biology; botany
2. extending or oriented from the back to the belly side of an organism
Usage: anatomy; zoology

Examples

• The dorsiventral structure of a typical leaf shows a palisade layer on the upper surface and a spongy layer below.
• Many fish have dorsiventral flattening, with a darker back and lighter belly.
• The dorsiventral axis of the embryo is established early in development.
• Dorsiventral leaves are common in plants that grow in full sunlight.
• The dorsiventral organization of the nervous system is evident in vertebrates.