Ectonephridium

/ˌɛktənəˈfrɪdiəm/ noun

Definition

An excretory organ found in certain invertebrates that opens directly to the outside of the body rather than into a body cavity.

Etymology

From Greek 'ekto-' (outside) + 'nephros' (kidney) + Latin '-idium' (small thing). A specialized term from zoology describing the location of primitive kidneys.

Kelly Says

Earthworms and many marine worms have ectonephridia—it's basically nature's way of having a drain pipe that goes straight outside instead of through internal plumbing!

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