Which germ layer gives rise to the skin?

• A. Endoderm
• B. Ectoderm
• C. Mesoderm
• D. Neural crest

Answer: (B)

The outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis, forms from the ectoderm. This germ layer also gives rise to the nervous system and many other external-facing tissues, which is why the epidermis is classified as ectodermal. The underlying dermis comes primarily from the mesoderm, with some contributions from neural crest cells to certain skin components like pigment cells. Endoderm forms internal linings (gut and respiratory tract), not skin. So, the part of the skin that covers the body originates from the ectoderm.