Museum of Science, Boston

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September 02, 2009

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For some time, the appendix has been categorized as a useless organ. However, new research not only suggests a novel function for the appendix but also shows its evolutionary importance. Watch this videocast to find out more.

Reference: "Comparative Anatomy and Phylogenetic Distribution of the Mammalian Cecal Appendix," H.F. Smith, R.E. Fisher, M.L. Everett, A.D. Thomas, R. Randall Bollinger, and W. Parker. Journal of Evolutionary Biology, 2009.