pharynx

the region extending from the beginning of the OESOPHAGUS up to the base of the SKULL at the cavity into which the NOSE and MOUTH open. It is muscular, with a MUCOUS MEMBRANE , and acts as the route for the both food (to the oesophagus) and air (to the LARYNX ). The EUSTACHIAN TUBES open from the upper part of the pharynx.