Excretion and Osmoregulation

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the excretory system and osmoregulation in insects as discussed in Lecture 8.

Excretory System

Maintains a constant level of salt and water, manages osmotic pressure, and eliminates toxic nitrogenous wastes.

Malpighian Tubules

Long, thin tubes involved in excretion and osmoregulation, found in insects, and varying in number between species.

Nephrocytes

Cells that remove high molecular weight foreign chemicals from the hemocoel, aiding in excretion and detoxification.

Uric Acid

A less toxic nitrogenous waste product formed from ammonia, excreted as a solid by most terrestrial insects.

Antidiuresis

The secretion of hyperosmotic urine to conserve water, typically seen in terrestrial species.

Diuresis

The production of hyposmotic urine to excrete excess water, often occurring in freshwater insects.

Goblet Cells

Cells in the midgut that actively transport potassium ions and accumulate toxic substances, discharging them during molts.

Osmoregulation

The physiological process by which organisms regulate water and solute concentrations in the hemolymph.

Rectal Pads

Structures in the rectum that help in the reabsorption of water and ions while excreting nitrogenous wastes.

Storage Excretion

A process where waste material, especially uric acid, accumulates in a harmless form in the body instead of being excreted.

Hormonal Control

Regulation of excretory processes through diuretic and antidiuretic hormones produced by the neuroendocrine system.

Hemolymph

The fluid that serves as blood in insects, crucial for the transport of nutrients and excretion of wastes.

Hypotonic Urine

Dilute urine that is produced in freshwater insects to help manage excess water intake.

Hyperosmotic Urine

Concentrated urine produced by terrestrial species to minimize water loss.