extra-stomachal

Updated: May 5, 2025

I am not aware of any other case of extra-stomachal digestion having been recorded. The boa- constrictor is said to bathe its prey with saliva, but this is doubtful; and it is done solely for the sake of lubricating its prey.

Charles Darwin - The formation of vegetable mould through the action of worms, with observations on their habits

Nature of the sites inhabited Can live long under water Nocturnal Wander about at night Often lie close to the mouths of their burrows, and are thus destroyed in large numbers by birds Structure Do not possess eyes, but can distinguish between light and darkness Retreat rapidly when brightly illuminated, not by a reflex action Power of attention Sensitive to heat and cold Completely deaf Sensitive to vibrations and to touch Feeble power of smell Taste Mental qualities Nature of food Omnivorous Digestion Leaves before being swallowed, moistened with a fluid of the nature of the pancreatic secretion Extra-stomachal digestion Calciferous glands, structure of Calcareous concretions formed in the anterior pair of glands The calcareous matter primarily an excretion, but secondarily serves to neutralise the acids generated during the digestive process.

Charles Darwin - The formation of vegetable mould through the action of worms, with observations on their habits