SPIRAL VALVE Meaning and
Definition
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A spiral valve is a specialized anatomical structure found in the intestines of certain species, primarily fish and sharks. It is an organ that aids in the digestion and absorption of nutrients in these aquatic organisms.
The spiral valve is a spiral-shaped, coiled tube located within the intestine. It serves to increase the surface area available for absorption of nutrients, maximizing the efficiency of their digestive processes. This structure consists of many ridges or folds that wind tightly around the intestine, creating a spiral-like appearance.
The primary function of the spiral valve is to prolong the path of food particles passing through the digestive system, allowing for enhanced nutrient absorption. As food flows through the intestine, it encounters the ridges of the spiral valve. The ridges slow down the movement of food and increase the contact between nutrient-rich particles and the intestinal walls. This allows for a higher rate of nutrient absorption.
In addition to its role in nutrient absorption, the spiral valve also serves to increase buoyancy control in fish by regulating the flow of water through the intestine. Furthermore, it helps in the excretion of waste materials from the body.
The presence of a spiral valve is an evolutionary adaptation that improves the digestive efficiency of certain aquatic organisms. Its unique structure and function contribute to the overall health and survival of these species in their respective ecosystems.
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Valve of Heister, valvula spiralis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPIRAL VALVE
- apiral valve
- zpiral valve
- xpiral valve
- dpiral valve
- epiral valve
- wpiral valve
- soiral valve
- sliral valve
- s-iral valve
- s0iral valve
- spural valve
- spjral valve
- spkral valve
- sporal valve
- sp9ral valve
- sp8ral valve
- spieal valve
- spidal valve
- spifal valve
- spital valve
Etymology of SPIRAL VALVE
The term "spiral valve" is derived from the Latin word "valva", meaning "fold" or "door". The word "spiral" originates from the Latin word "spiralis", meaning "winding" or "coiling". The combination of these two terms refers to the anatomical structure found in the intestines of certain fish species, which consists of a spiral-shaped, folded internal membrane known as the spiral valve.
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