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🔬general biology i review

Nephridia

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Nephridia are excretory organs found in many invertebrates, including molluscs and annelids. They function similarly to kidneys by removing metabolic wastes from the body.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Nephridia are tubular structures that filter bodily fluid to remove waste products.
  2. Two main types of nephridia exist: protonephridia and metanephridia.
  3. Protonephridia contain flame cells that help drive waste through the tubules.
  4. Metanephridia have an open funnel called a nephrostome that collects coelomic fluid.
  5. Nephridia play a crucial role in osmotic regulation by balancing water and salts within the organism.

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