The primary components of the vertebrate kidney include the nephrons, renal cortex, renal medulla, renal pelvis, renal arteries and veins, and ureters.
1. Nephrons: Nephrons are the functional units of the kidney. They are small tubules responsible for filtering blood and removing waste substances. Each kidney contains millions of nephrons.
2. Renal Cortex: The renal cortex is the outer region of the kidney, and it contains the renal corpuscles, convoluted tubules, and the majority of the nephrons.
3. Renal Medulla: The renal medulla is the inner region of the kidney, and it consists of renal pyramids. This area is responsible for the concentration of urine and contains the collecting ducts.
4. Renal Pelvis: The renal pelvis is a funnel-shaped structure located at the center of the kidney. It collects urine from the nephrons and funnels it into the ureter.
5. Renal Arteries and Veins: The renal arteries supply oxygenated blood to the kidney, while the renal veins drain deoxygenated blood from the kidney. These blood vessels play a crucial role in filtration and waste removal.
6. Ureters: Ureters are long, muscular tubes that connect the renal pelvis to the urinary bladder. They transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder, facilitating its storage and subsequent elimination from the body.
Describe the primary components of the vertebrate kidney
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