Question

Which of the following is a vestigial organ in the human alimentary canal?

• A. Appendix
• B. Colon
• C. Caecum
• D. Rectum

Hint:

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, sometimes requiring surgical removal.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Concept of Vestigial Organs:
Vestigial organs are body parts that have lost their original function through evolution but remain present in reduced form. Step 2: Appendix in Humans:
The appendix is a small, finger-like projection attached to the caecum of the large intestine.
In herbivorous animals, it helps in digesting cellulose.
In humans, it has no significant digestive role and is considered vestigial.
Step 3: Analysis of Options:
Colon → actively absorbs water and salts.
Caecum → small pouch, but not vestigial.
Rectum → stores feces before excretion.
Appendix → vestigial organ.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The vestigial organ in the alimentary canal is the Appendix.