What is the covering of the abdominal cavity called?

The covering of the abdominal cavity is called the peritoneum. This serous membrane lines the abdominal wall and covers the abdominal organs, serving multiple functions such as providing a protective layer and facilitating movement between abdominal organs. It also plays a role in supporting the organs within the abdomen, and contains nerves, blood vessels, and lymphatics that supply these organs.

In contrast, the pericardium refers to the membrane surrounding the heart, not the abdominal cavity. The mediastinum is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity that contains the heart, great vessels, trachea, and esophagus, and it does not pertain to the abdomen. The thoracic cavity is the area of the body enclosed by the ribs that contains the lungs and heart, again unrelated to the abdominal cavity. Thus, the peritoneum is accurately identified as the covering specific to the abdominal cavity.