What does the term secretions mean in biology?

The term "secretions" in biology refers to a process of producing and discharging substances. This can encompass various biological processes where cells or glands synthesize specific substances and then release them into the body or outside of it. These secreted substances can include enzymes, hormones, mucus, and other fluids that play critical roles in digestion, signaling, protection, and other physiological functions.

For example, salivary glands secrete saliva, which aids in digestion, while endocrine glands secrete hormones that regulate bodily functions. This definition is foundational in understanding various bodily systems and how they operate, making it an essential concept in biological sciences. Other options may touch on related bodily activities, but they do not define the specific process of secretion itself.