Lumbar vertebrae

The lumbar vertebrae are located between the thoracic vertebrae and sacrum. They form the lower part of the back in humans, and the region of the spine between the rib cage and pelvis in quadrupedal mammals. In humans, there are typically five lumbar vertebrae. The term is used to describe the anatomy of humans as well as domestic ungulates and other quadrupeds; the specific number varies by species, typically ranging from six in horses and cattle to six or seven in pigs. In commercial butchery, these vertebrae correspond to high-value cuts of meat, including the tenderloin and sirloin steak.