Definition
peristalsis is the rhythmic, wave like muscular contractions in the walls of the alimentary canal. #BiologyDefinitions
Enables food to be mixed with digestive juices, and also pushes or propels food along the gut.
When circular muscles contract, they constrict the lumen when longitudinal muscles contract, they shorten and widen the lumen circular muscles and longitudinal muscles are antagonistic muscles. → means that one contracts, the other set relaxes.
- when circular muscles contract, longitudinal muscle relaxes. wall of the gut constricts, and the gut becomes narrower and longer. food is squeezed and pushed forward.
- when longitudinal muscles contract, the circular muscles relax. wall of the gut dilates, becomes wider and shorter. they widen the lumen for food to enter.
