A somite is a segment of mesodermal tissue that forms during the early development of vertebrate embryos. These structures are crucial for the organization of the body plan, as they give rise to various tissues, including muscles, vertebrae, and dermis. Somites develop from the paraaxial mesoderm, which is located on either side of the neural tube. Each somite is paired and forms in a sequential manner, starting from the head and moving towards the tail of the embryo. The number of somites can vary among different species, but they play a vital role in the segmentation of the body and the development of the nervous system and skeletal system.