Key functions of excretory systems include:


  • Filtration. Water and solutes are forced across the membranes of capillaries to produce a filtrate.
  • Reabsorption. Valuable solutes such as glucose and amino acids are reclaimed from the filtrate by active transport.
  • Secretion. Toxins and excess ions are extracted from body fluids to the filtrate by active transport.
  • Excretion. The filtrate leaves the system.