Which muscles act as agonists for depression of the scapula?

• A. Trapezius (Upper), Levator Scapulae
• B. Deltoid, Levator Scapulae
• C. Pectoralis Minor, Serratus Anterior
• D. Pectoralis Minor, Trapezius (Lower), Serratus Anterior

Answer: (D)

Depressing the scapula involves pulling it downward toward the rib cage. The primary movers for this action are the pectoralis minor and the lower fibers of the trapezius, which directly tip and pull the scapula downward. The serratus anterior can assist in this depressor action by stabilizing and guiding the medial border of the scapula as it moves, helping the downward movement especially when the shoulder girdle is raised or loaded.

So the combination of pectoralis minor, lower trapezius, and serratus anterior forms the group that most effectively depresses the scapula. In contrast, muscles like the upper trapezius and levator scapulae elevate the scapula, and the deltoid does not primarily drive depression, which is why those options aren’t correct.