Difference Between Protonephridia and Metanephridia
The difference between protonephridia and metanephridia is given in the table below:
|
Features |
Protonephridia |
Metanephridia |
|---|---|---|
|
Definition |
Protonephridia are characterized by ciliated or flagellated flame cells that are utilized for excretion. |
Metanephridia is formed of cells possessing an exterior aperture termed nephridiopore and an interior aperture termed nephrostome. |
|
Types of cells |
There are numerous flame cells in protonephridia. |
Metanephridia possess nephrostomes. |
|
Structure |
Protonephridia are cells that resemble cups. |
Metanephridia are formations that resemble funnels. |
|
Presence or absence of cells with flagella |
Present in solenocytes |
Absent |
|
Selective reabsorption |
Do not occur in protonephridia |
Occur in metanephridia |
|
Internal Opening |
Absent |
Present |
|
Presence of perforations |
Present |
Absent |
|
Examples |
Organisms that are members of phylum Platyhelminthes, Nemertea, Rotifera etc. |
Organisms that are members of phylum Annelida, Arthropoda, Mollusca etc. |
Difference between Protonephridia and Metanephridia
The difference between protonephridia and metanephridia lies in their structure and function. Protonephridia and metanephridia are parts of the excretory system of invertebrates. They resemble kidneys in function and eliminate the hazardous nitrogenous waste from the system.
The main difference between protonephridia and metanephridia is that protonephridia are simple excretory structures found in flatworms, while metanephridia are more complex excretory organs found in higher invertebrates. In this article, we will discuss the difference between Protonephridia and Metanephridia.
Table of Content
- What is Protonephridia?
- What is Metanephridia?
- Difference Between Protonephridia and Metanephridia
- Conclusion: Difference Between Protonephridia and Metanephridia
- FAQs on Difference Between Protonephridia and Metanephridia