Tuesday, December 30, 2008

WsOTD: Meconium and Myrmecology



Poop is not only a Human problem. Other organisms were able to address this problem long before we found ways to build comfort rooms and septic tanks. A blog in Discovery site discussed some ways how eusocial organisms tackle the poop problem, read more here.

After reading the article, I got to learn the following words:

Meconium – noun - Meconium is the earliest stools of an infant. Unlike later feces, meconium is composed of materials ingested during the time the infant spends in the uterus: intestinal epithelial cells, lanugo, mucus, amniotic fluid, bile, and water. Meconium is almost sterile, unlike later feces, is viscous and sticky like tar, and has no odor. It should be completely passed by the end of the first few days of postpartum life, with the stools progressing toward yellow (digested milk). The term Meconium derives from meconium-arion, meaning "opium-like", in reference either to its tarry appearance or to Aristotle's belief that it induces sleep in the fetus. [from Wikipedia – Meconium].

Myrmecology – noun - Myrmecology (from Greek: μύρμεξ, myrmex, "ant"; and λόγος, logos, "knowledge") is the scientific study of ants, a branch of entomology. Ants are often chosen as a study group to answer questions on the evolution of social systems. All ants are highly eusocial. [from Wikipedia – Myrmecology].

Thought Insert: Wafer and Raisins

Lately, I am addicted to Loacker Sandwich Wafers and Champion (by National Raisin Company) Fruit Bites.

National Raisin Company Champion Fruit Bites


Loacker's Sandwich Wafers

Healthy Foodams!

No comments: