Overview

The liver is the largest visceral organ in the body, accounting for roughly 1-4% of total body weight, depending on species (3-4% in carnviores and 1-2% in herbivores). The liver is arranged into distinct lobes, each of which is encased by a thin, translucent layer of mesothelium (Glisson’s capsule). The number of liver lobes varies among different species. Canines and felines have five liver lobes, and herbivores have four liver lobes. The number of liver lobes does not represent function but is a reflection of species diversification.