Why some animals choose to retract their anus

Science · Published 7 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: While most creatures keep their digestive exit far from their mouth, nature has found a more creative solution. This video explores the unusual anatomy of bryozoans.

In the animal kingdom, there is a standard blueprint: the anus is typically located on the opposite side of the body from the mouth. However, bryozoans defy this convention. This video examines how these organisms utilize a retractable anus, demonstrating the unexpected anatomical creativity found in certain species.

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