Ammonotelic

Definition

Ammonotelic organisms excrete nitrogenous waste primarily as ammonia. This method is common in aquatic animals where water is abundant for the dilution of toxic ammonia.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ammonotelic excretion requires a large amount of water to safely eliminate ammonia from the body.
2. Common examples of ammonotelic organisms include many fish, amphibians, and invertebrates.
3. Ammonia is highly toxic and soluble in water, making it efficient for excretion in aquatic environments.
4. This form of nitrogenous waste removal is energy-efficient but impractical for terrestrial life due to limited water availability.
5. Ammonotelism allows these organisms to avoid the energy costs associated with converting ammonia into less toxic compounds like urea or uric acid.

Review Questions

• What type of environment do ammonotelic organisms typically inhabit?
• Why is ammonia a suitable nitrogenous waste product for aquatic animals?
• Name two examples of ammonotelic organisms.

Related terms

Ureotelic: Organisms that convert ammonia into urea for excretion, which requires less water than ammonia excretion.

Uricotelic: Organisms that convert ammonia into uric acid for excretion, minimizing water loss and suitable for arid environments.

Osmoregulation: The process by which an organism regulates the balance of water and electrolytes in its body to maintain homeostasis.