The skeletal structure that supports the body is called the skeleton. In humans and many vertebrates, the skeleton serves multiple essential functions, including providing structure, protecting vital organs, facilitating movement through joints and muscles, and serving as a site for blood cell production in bone marrow. The human skeleton consists of 206 bones that vary in shape and size, contributing to a complex framework that supports the body's overall form. In addition to these functions, the skeleton also plays a critical role in mineral storage, notably calcium and phosphorus.