This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: None, Subject name: Anatomy
Intrinsic muscles of the tongue are derived from? 
Select and explain. 
A. 2 nd branchial cleft, B. Pharyngeal arch mesenchyme, C. Occipital somites, D. Cervical somites
C: Occipital somites
Answer: C: Occipital somites 
Explanation: Most of the tongue muscles are derived from myoblasts that migrate from the occipital somites.The tongue's embryonic orgin is derived from first 4 pharyngeal arches contributing different components.Anterior 2/3" or body of tongue: is derived from 3 lingual buds- the median tongue bud (tuberculum impar) and 2 lateral lingual swellings developing at each side of the median tongue bud. (Taste sensation to the anterior 2/3rd of the tongue is provided by the chorda tympani branch of the facial nerve).Post 1/3" or root of the tongue: is formed from two median elevations;