Lecture on Animal Anatomy and Physiology

This set of flashcards includes key vocabulary terms and their definitions related to animal anatomy and physiology, specifically focusing on digestion and related systems.

Homodontic

Referring to animals that have the same type of teeth throughout their life.

Cecum

A pouch connected to the junction of the small and large intestines, playing a role in digestive functions.

Rumination

The process by which certain animals chew their food, swallow it, and then regurgitate it for further chewing.

Proventriculus

The glandular stomach of birds, responsible for initial digestion before food enters the gizzard.

Gizzard

A muscular digestive organ in birds that grinds food, aided by ingested stones or grit.

Cloaca

A common opening for the excretory and reproductive tracts in birds and some reptiles.

Ectothermic

Referring to animals that rely on external sources for body heat, such as reptiles and fish.

Microbiome

The community of microorganisms living in a specific habitat, such as the digestive system.

Esophagus

The tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

Duodenum

The first section of the small intestine, where most chemical digestion occurs.