The peritoneum is a serous membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers most abdominal organs. It develops from the lateral plate mesoderm and forms folds and ligaments that support the abdominal organs. The peritoneum has a parietal layer lining the abdominal wall and a visceral layer covering the abdominal organs and structures formed between layers include mesenteries and ligaments. The peritoneum allows organs to move during respiration and digestion while maintaining their anatomical position through folds, ligaments and pouches.