alimentary canal

Tube through which food passes in animals – it extends from the mouth to the anus and forms a large part of the digestive system. In human adults, it is about 9 m/30 ft long, consisting of the mouth cavity, pharynx, oesophagus, stomach, and the small and large intestines. It is also known as the gut. It is a complex organ, specifically adapted for digestion and the absorption of food. Enzymes from the wall of the canal and from other associated organs, such as the pancreas, speed up the digestive process.

The muscles in the wall of the alimentary canal contract, mixing food with the enzymes and slowly pushing it along in the direction of the anus in a process known as peristalsis. Dietary fibre encourages this movement. The constant stream of enzymes from the canal wall and from the pancreas assists the breakdown of food molecules into smaller, soluble nutrient molecules, which are absorbed through the canal wall into the bloodstream and carried to individual cells. The wall of the canal receives an excellent supply of blood and is folded so as to increase its surface area. These two adaptations ensure efficient absorption of nutrient molecules.