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#Malpighian tubules

4 public questions tagged with this topic.

ZOOLOGY

What is the primary function of Malpighian tubules in insects?

Malpighian tubules are excretory structures in insects that help in the removal of metabolic waste. This follows from NCERT principle where relation explains outcome clearly for students.

Ref: NCERT Biology Textbook for Class XI and XII (Zoology section), Chapter: Biology - Zoology portion covering relevant system and function, Topic: Structural organization and physiology.

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Animal Classification

Excretory organs of insects are

Insect excretion is performed by Malpighian tubules, slender blind-ended tubules opening at midgut-hindgut junction, derived from endodermal or ectodermal origin depending on order. Epithelium actively transports potassium, uric acid, excess ions and nitrogenous wastes from hemolymph into lumen via active secretion, water follows osmotically, then hindgut and rectal glands reabsorb water and ions producing semi-dry frass. Tubule number ranges from two to over two hundred. Nephridia characterize annelids, antennal green glands crustaceans, coxal glands arachnids. Malpighian tubule-rectal complex supports uricotelism conserving water essential for terrestrial life.

Ref: NCERT Class 11 Biology, Chapter 7: Excretion Malpighian Tubules; Campbell Biology, 12th ed., Chapter 44

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