Question

What is the function of nephridia in an earthworm?

Answer 1

Nephridia:

1. The nephridium is a pair of invertebrate kidneys that operate similarly to vertebrate kidneys. In earthworms, nephridia are responsible for maintaining osmoregulation.
2. In earthworms, there are three types of nephridia that are named based on their locations.

1. Septal nephridia
2. Integumentary nephridia
3. Pharyngeal nephridia

Functions of nephridia:

1. The nephridium's body is divided into two sections: a small straight lobe and a lengthy twisted loop.
2. The proximal limb and the distal limb combine to form the loop.
3. The nitrogenous wastes of an earthworm are excreted in the form of urine, which typically comprises urea, water, traces of ammonia, and creatinine and these substances are removed from the body through nephridia.