A flame cell is a specialized excretory cell found in the simplest freshwater invertebrates, including flatworms, rotifers and nemerteans; these are the simplest animals to have a dedicated excretory system. Flame cells function like a kidney, removing waste materials.

Do flame cells help osmoregulation?

A paired protonephridial system composed of tubules and flame cells functions in excretion of nitrogenous wastes and osmoregulation in all rotifers (Figures 13.1–13.2).

What are flame cells where do they occur?

Flame cells are found in freshwater invertebrates, such as flatworms, including parasitic tapeworms and free-living planaria. Figure 41.3B. 1: Flame cells and nephridia: In the excretory system of the (a) planaria, cilia of flame cells propel waste through a tubule formed by a tube cell.