Each of the four pharyngeal arches contains a cartilaginous and muscular component, nerve, and artery. The endodermal lining of the pharyngeal pouches gives rise to a number of important organs (see appendix). Only one of four pharyngeal clefts contributes to the definitive structure in the embryo.

1. First pharyngeal arch
2. Maxillary process
3. Mandibular process
4. Second or hyoid arch
5. Third pharyng eal arch
6. Fourth - sixth pharyngeal arch

1. Mandibular branch
2. Maxillary branch
3. Opthalmic branch
4. Facial nerve
5. Central nervous system
6. Glossopharyngeal nerve
7. Vagus nerve
8. Trigeminal ganglion

1. Stomodeum
2. Pharyngeal pouches
3. Dorsal aorta
4. Aortic sac
5. Thyroid primordium
6. Esophagus
7. Lung bud
8. Central nervous system