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Origin: xiphoid process, lower ribs

Insertion: Central tendon

- Contractions cause muscle to flatten and increases volume of thoracic cavity

- Inspiration

- Origin and Insertion: intercostal space

- Contractions increase volume of thoracic cavity

- Runs ventral to caudal.

- Used in strenuous exercise

- Expiration

- Origin and insertion: intercostal space

- Contraction decrease volume of thoracic cavity

- Runs ventral to cranial.

- Used in strenuous exercise