What is the stratum germinativum also referred to as?

The stratum germinativum is also known as the basal layer. This is the deepest layer of the epidermis, where new skin cells are generated. These cells undergo mitosis, a process of cell division, which helps replenish the skin. As cells are produced in this layer, they gradually move upwards through the other layers of the epidermis to the surface, where they eventually die and become part of the outermost protective layer of skin.

By understanding this, it becomes clear that the term "basal layer" accurately describes its role and position in the skin's structure, distinguishing it from other layers such as the horny layer, corneal layer, and reticular layer, which serve different functions and are located at various depths within the skin.