Why do we have seemingly useless body parts like earwax and butt hair?

Science · Published 8 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: From the purpose of your appendix to the reason for hair on your backside, this video explores the biological functions behind some of the human body's most peculiar features.

Host Hank investigates the evolutionary or biological utility of parts of the anatomy that often seem unnecessary. The episode examines the specific roles played by earwax, the appendix, and butt hair, questioning why these traits have persisted in the human body.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?

Related

• The human appendix is not the evolutionary vestige we once thought
• The evolutionary mystery of why humans possess buttocks
• Why your body behaves in such strange and amazing ways
• Why your rear end might be the most important orifice on your body
• Why do humans have hair in some places and not in others?
• The cellular merger that allowed complex life to exist
• Can we measure the history of an object's existence?
• The complex architecture of life began with a cellular merger
• Are polar bears using natural fiber optic technology to stay warm?
• How Darwin built a case for life's shared history
• Do animals experience grief when they lose a member of their group?
• The Last Eukaryotic Common Ancestor likely pioneered the complex machinery of sexual reproduction.

More in Evolutionary biology · More in Science · Latest · A–Z · All topics