What thin membrane suspends many abdominal visceral organs?

The peritoneum is the thin membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers the abdominal organs, suspending many of them in place. It provides structural support while allowing some movement of the organs during activities like digestion. The peritoneal cavity, which is the space between the parietal and visceral layers of the peritoneum, contains a small amount of lubricating fluid that reduces friction as the organs move. This function is vital for the proper functioning of the digestive organs and overall abdominal activity.

In contrast, the pericardium is a fibrous sac surrounding the heart, the pleura is a membrane surrounding the lungs, and the endocardium is the inner lining of the heart. Each of these membranes serves a different purpose and is located in distinct areas of the body, making them unrelated to the abdominal visceral organs that the peritoneum supports.