anus

structures of the human large intestine, rectum, and anusThe mucosa of the large intestine is punctuated with numerous crypts that absorb water and are lined with mucus-secreting goblet cells. At the lower end of the rectum, the circular and longitudinal muscle layers terminate in the internal and external anal sphincters.

anus, terminal opening of the anal canal, the portion of the digestive tract through which fecal material is excreted. See also rectum.

The Editors of Encyclopaedia BritannicaThis article was most recently revised and updated by Rick Livingston.
Citation Information
Article Title: anus
Website Name: Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published: 15 May 2026
Access Date: November 13, 2026