What is the function of metanephridia in annelids?

What is the function of metanephridia in annelids?

• A. Move fluid via cilia through tubules
• B. Store urine
• C. Digest fats
• D. Produce hormones

Answer: (A)

Metanephridia in annelids are excretory organs that remove wastes and help balance water and ions. They work by drawing coelomic fluid into a tubular tubule through a ciliated funnel (the nephrostome). As the fluid travels through the tubule, useful substances can be reabsorbed, and the remaining waste is propelled along the tubule by the beating cilia until it exits the body through an external pore. This cilia-driven transport through the tubules is the key feature of their function. They are not storage sites, nor do they digest fats or produce hormones.

Metanephridia in annelids are excretory organs that remove wastes and help balance water and ions. They work by drawing coelomic fluid into a tubular tubule through a ciliated funnel (the nephrostome). As the fluid travels through the tubule, useful substances can be reabsorbed, and the remaining waste is propelled along the tubule by the beating cilia until it exits the body through an external pore. This cilia-driven transport through the tubules is the key feature of their function. They are not storage sites, nor do they digest fats or produce hormones.