Pyloric caeca

Definition

Pyloric caeca are finger-like projections extending from the digestive tract in some deuterostomes, most notably in echinoderms like starfish. They function primarily in digestion and absorption of nutrients.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pyloric caeca are found in many echinoderms, such as starfish and sea cucumbers.
2. They secrete enzymes that aid in the breakdown of food particles.
3. The pyloric caeca increase the surface area for nutrient absorption.
4. They can vary in number and size depending on the species.
5. In starfish, pyloric caeca are connected to each arm and play a crucial role in distributing nutrients throughout the body.

Review Questions

Related terms

Digestive Tract: The system responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients.

Echinoderms:

A phylum of marine animals characterized by radial symmetry and a calcareous skeleton.

Enzymes:

Biological molecules that catalyze chemical reactions, including those involved in digestion.