The sphenomandibular ligament is a developmental remnant of which structure?

The sphenomandibular ligament is a remnant of Meckel cartilage of the first pharyngeal (branchial) arch.Other options: Reichert cartilage (second arch) gives rise to the stylohyoid ligament and parts of the hyoid; the notochord and stapes are unrelated.Key exam takeaway: Sphenomandibular ligament = remnant of Meckel cartilage (first arch); stylohyoid ligament = Reichert (second arch).