What does the term "dorsal" refer to in animal anatomy?

In animal anatomy, the term "dorsal" refers specifically to the upper surface of an animal. This anatomical term is used to describe the part of the body that faces upwards in a typical standing animal position. In many animals, including humans, the dorsal aspect aligns with the back. For instance, when observing a fish, the dorsal fin is found on the upper side of the fish, which is positioned above the body. This clear definition helps in understanding various terms and positions in the study of animal anatomy and is critical for accurately discussing the structure and orientation of animals in veterinary practice, zoology, and biology.