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General Science • BiologyMedium

Which nitrogenous waste product is excreted primarily by birds, reptiles, and terrestrial insects to conserve body water due to its low solubility?

A. Urea
B. Ammonia
C. Uric acid✓ Correct Answer
D. Creatinine

💡 Solution & Explanation

Uric acid is excreted by uricotelic animals such as birds and reptiles as a semisolid paste or white precipitate, which minimizes water loss since it requires minimal hydration for elimination. Ammonia is highly toxic and water-soluble, making it suitable only for aquatic organisms that can dilute it instantly. Mammals convert ammonia into urea, which requires moderate water for excretion through the kidneys. Creatinine is a metabolic waste product of creatine phosphate breakdown filtered by renal glomeruli.

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