1. Mouth and Teeth:
* Killer whales have a large mouth with sharp, conical teeth designed for tearing flesh.
* They have 40-50 teeth, and their teeth are constantly being replaced throughout their lives.
2. Esophagus:
* The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. It helps move food down to the stomach.
3. Stomach:
* Killer whales have a single, large stomach that digests food with the help of strong acids and enzymes.
* The stomach breaks down the food into smaller particles.
4. Small Intestine:
* The small intestine is the longest part of the digestive tract and plays a crucial role in nutrient absorption.
* It's lined with villi, which increase the surface area for efficient absorption.
* Pancreatic enzymes and bile from the liver help break down fats and other nutrients.
5. Large Intestine:
* The large intestine absorbs water and forms waste.
* It's shorter than the small intestine.
6. Rectum and Anus:
* Waste products are stored in the rectum and eventually expelled through the anus.
Unique Adaptations:
* High fat diet: Killer whales have a specialized digestive system that can efficiently digest the high fat content of their diet.
* Powerful digestive enzymes: Their stomach and intestines produce powerful enzymes that break down the tough tissues of their prey, including bones, cartilage, and blubber.
* Fast digestion: Killer whales have a relatively fast digestive process, allowing them to consume large amounts of food and efficiently extract nutrients.
Overall, the killer whale digestive system is highly effective at processing a varied diet of fish, squid, and marine mammals. Its adaptations allow them to efficiently extract nutrients and thrive in their marine environment.