Alimentary Canal Fact File

1. Definition: The alimentary canal, also known as the digestive tract or gastrointestinal tract (GI
tract), is a long, hollow tube that starts from the mouth and ends at the anus. It is responsible for the
digestion and absorption of food and nutrients in the body.

2. Components: The alimentary canal consists of several organs, including:

 Mouth: Where digestion begins through mechanical (chewing) and chemical (saliva)
processes.

 Pharynx: The passage connecting the mouth to the esophagus.

 Esophagus: A muscular tube that transports food from the pharynx to the stomach through
peristalsis (muscle contractions).

 Stomach: A pouch-like organ that further breaks down food with acids and enzymes, turning
it into chyme.

 Small Intestine: Divided into three parts (duodenum, jejunum, and ileum), where the
majority of digestion and nutrient absorption occurs.

 Large Intestine (Colon): Responsible for absorbing water and electrolytes, forming feces
from the remaining indigestible food matter.

 Rectum: Stores feces until they are ready to be eliminated.

 Anus: The opening through which feces are expelled from the body.

3. Functions:

 Ingestion: Taking in food through the mouth.

 Digestion: Mechanical (chewing) and chemical (enzymatic) breakdown of food into simpler
forms.

 Absorption: Passage of digested nutrients through the intestinal walls into the bloodstream.

 Elimination: Removal of indigestible waste (feces) from the body.

4. Peristalsis: Contractions of smooth muscles along the alimentary canal propel food along its
length, aiding in digestion and movement of food through different organs.

5. Digestive Juices and Enzymes: Various glands along the alimentary canal secrete digestive juices
containing enzymes that break down food components like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into
smaller molecules for absorption.

6. Microbiota: The alimentary canal hosts a diverse community of microorganisms (gut flora) in the
intestines that aid in digestion, synthesis of vitamins, and maintenance of the immune system.

7. Regulation: The digestive process is regulated by hormones, nervous system signals, and reflexes
that control the release of digestive juices, movement of food, and absorption of nutrients.

8. Disorders: Disorders of the alimentary canal include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD),
ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, constipation, diarrhea, and various
gastrointestinal cancers.
Understanding the structure and function of the alimentary canal is crucial for comprehending how
the body processes food and extracts nutrients necessary for overall health and well-being.