Definition

The last stage of kidney development in vertebrate embryos, which becomes the main kidney in adult reptiles, birds, and mammals.

Example

In mammals, the metanephros is the organ that ultimately forms the adult kidney.

Conversation

Did you know that the metanephros is the final stage of kidney development in embryos?

Really? I had no idea!

Yeah, it eventually becomes the adult kidney in mammals.

That’s fascinating! I love learning about how our bodies work.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Metanephros is formed from "meta-" (meaning beyond or after) and "nephros" (meaning kidney in Greek). The term refers to the final stage of kidney development in vertebrates, indicating a kidney that develops after the earlier stages.

Memory Tip

Think of 'meta-' meaning beyond or after, and 'nephros' meaning kidney. This helps you remember that 'metanephros' refers to the kidney that develops after earlier forms.

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