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Cloacae: meaning, definitions and examples

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cloacae

 

[kloʊˈeɪki ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy term

Cloacae are openings or cavities found in certain animals that serve multiple functions, including excretion and reproduction. In many species, the cloaca is a common chamber for the expulsion of urine, feces, and reproductive fluids. This anatomical feature is particularly notable in birds, amphibians, and reptiles, where it plays a crucial role in their physiology. The cloaca allows for the efficient elimination of waste and, in some species, serves as the reproductive opening. Understanding cloacae is essential for studying the biology and ecology of these animals.

Synonyms

common opening, orifice, vent, vulva.

Examples of usage

  • Birds excrete waste through their cloaca.
  • Some reptiles use their cloaca for mating.
  • The cloaca is an important feature in amphibians.
  • Cloacae allow for the release of both urinary and fecal matter.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'cloaca', meaning 'sewer' or 'drain', referring to its function in the body.
  • The term was first used in English in the late 16th century, borrowing directly from Latin medical texts.

Zoology

  • Many reptiles, birds, and amphibians use this structure instead of separate openings for excretion and reproduction.
  • In some species, the cloaca serves additional roles, such as excreting waste or even for gas exchange in certain aquatic animals.

Anatomy

  • In humans, the embryonic form of this structure appears during development but separates into individual openings before birth.
  • This anatomical feature varies between species, explaining differences in reproductive and waste expulsion methods.

Comparative Biology

  • This system is often seen as an evolutionary adaptation that simplifies plumbing in the bodies of various species.
  • Animals with this feature tend to have unique reproductive strategies, which can adapt to their environments.

Ecology

  • The efficiency of the cloaca can influence an animal's environmental adaptability, affecting how they interact with their ecosystem.
  • Hibernation and varying climates often alter how cloacae function, emphasizing their ecological importance.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,766, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.