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what is the epiglottis?
An epiglottis is an anatomical structure that is designed to prevent animals from inhaling foods or liquids while they eat and swallow. the epiglottis is a lot like a toilet seat attached to the root of the tongue. During normal activities, it is left in the up position, allowing air to flow freely into the larynx and trachea. However, when an organism starts eating, the epiglottis snaps shut, covering the opening into the trachea. When the organism is done swallowing, the flap pops back up again to allow the organism to breathe.

The function of the epiglottis is made possible by the fact that it is made from elastic cartilage. Movement of the epiglottis is triggered by movements of the hyoid bone during swallowing, which means that organisms do not need to learn to move it during swallowing, because they are born with the ability to do so. Because the structure is not controlled by brain activity, it is also not dependent on nerve signals; it's basically like a mechanized part that requires no real maintenance on the part of the user.


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