Flame cell. A flame cell is a specialized excretory cell found in the simplest freshwater invertebrates, including flatworms (except the turbellarian order Acoela), rotifers and nemerteans; these are the simplest animals to have a dedicated excretory system. Flame cells function like a kidney, removing waste materials.

Flame cells are d excretory structure in platyhelminthes,rotifers,some annelids

Flame Cells: The Excretory Organ in Platyhelminthes

Platyhelminthes, commonly known as flatworms, is a phylum of invertebrate animals that includes a wide range of organisms such as planarians, flukes, and tapeworms. Within this phylum, one of the key features is the presence of flame cells, which serve as their excretory organ. Flame cells, also known as protonephridia, are specialized structures responsible for excretion and osmoregulation in these organisms.

Structure and Function of Flame Cells

Flame cells are small, hollow, sac-like structures that are distributed throughout the body of the flatworms. They are connected to a network of tubules that extend throughout the organism. The flame cells have a unique structure that allows them to perform their excretory functions effectively.

1. Flame Cell Structure: Each flame cell consists of a terminal bulb, a flame cell body, and a long, hair-like structure called a flame flagellum. The terminal bulb is located at the base of the flame cell and acts as a filtration unit. The flame cell body contains a tuft of cilia that line the inner surface of the cell. The flame flagellum extends into the tubules and is responsible for creating a current that moves fluid through the excretory system.

2. Excretory Function: The primary function of flame cells is excretion. The flame cells filter waste products, excess water, and metabolic byproducts from the body fluids of the flatworms. These waste substances are collected in the tubules connected to the flame cells and are eventually eliminated from the organism.

3. Osmoregulation: Flame cells also play a crucial role in osmoregulation, maintaining the proper balance of water and solutes in the body of the flatworms. They help regulate the concentration of ions and other substances in the body fluids by selectively reabsorbing or excreting them.

Conclusion

Flame cells are excretory organs found in the phylum Platyhelminthes. These specialized structures are responsible for waste elimination and osmoregulation in flatworms. The unique structure of flame cells allows them to efficiently filter waste products and maintain the balance of water and solutes in the body fluids of these organisms. Understanding the role of flame cells in excretion provides valuable insights into the physiology and biology of flatworms, contributing to our knowledge of this diverse phylum.