Meninges and cerebrospinal fluid

The meninges are the system of membranes that envelops the central nervous system. In living things, the meninges consist of three layers: the dura mater, the arachnoid mater, & the pia mater. The main function of the meninges and of the cerebrospinal fluid is to protect the central nervous system.

                                                             Figure:Meninges and cerebrospinal fluid

The Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear liquid generated within spaces in the brain known as the ventricles. Similar to saliva it is a filtrate of blood. It is found inside the subarachnoid space of the meninges also that surrounds the brain and the spinal chord both. Additionally, a space inside the spinal chord known as the central canal also consists of cerebrospinal fluid.It acts as a cushion for the neuraxis, which also brings nutrients to the brain and spinal cord and eliminating waste from the system.