canalículos

Canalículos are small channels or tubes found in various biological and geological contexts. In anatomy, they often refer to microscopic passages that transport substances. For example, in the kidneys, collecting tubules are also called collecting ducts or tubules, and they are responsible for reabsorbing water and electrolytes. Another notable example is the semicircular canals in the inner ear, which are part of the vestibular system and are crucial for sensing rotational movement and maintaining balance. These bony canals are filled with fluid and lined with sensory cells that detect changes in head position. In the liver, bile canaliculi are minute channels that collect bile produced by hepatocytes before it is transported to larger bile ducts.

Beyond biology, the term canalículo can also be used in geology to describe small channels or fissures in rocks. These can form through various geological processes, such as erosion or weathering, and can play a role in fluid flow through the subsurface. The specific function and composition of canalículos depend heavily on their location and the system they are part of. Their small size and extensive network often facilitate efficient transport and distribution of essential substances or play a role in sensory perception.