Why do wombats have cube-shaped poop?

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In summary, at an APS Fluid Dynamics seminar, it was revealed that wombats produce cubic-shaped feces due to variable intestinal wall resistance in the last 8% of their alimentary canal. This unique fecal stacking behavior may have potential for manufacturing applications. The study was funded by unknown sources and is commonly seen at APS DFD conferences.
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http://meetings.aps.org/Meeting/DFD18/Session/E19.1 link to presentation
https://gizmodo.com/we-finally-know-how-wombats-produce-their-distinctly-cu-1830414749

This may belong in Fluid dynamics. It is begin presented at an APS Fluid Dynamics seminar. @boneh3ad might know more.

Wombats (Australian marsupial, herbivore) apparently collect their dried poop cubes and stack them. The last 8% of the alimentary canal shapes the fecal matter into cubes as it dries, using variable intestinal wall resistance. The gizmodo article explains it in more detail. The fecal stacking behavior is possibly the why behind creating cubes. (my guess).

The APS abstract suggests the wombat approach may have manufacturing potential as a new method.
 
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I had no idea. It certainly explains their bad temper, though!
 
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At least based on the Gizmodo article, this seems almost so obvious as to not even really be a conclusion. "It is a cube because the walls of the colon push more on the middle than near the corners" is essentially what this say, and that seems more like a requirement for this to happen rather than a means of doing so. The more impressive feat would be having square ends, which wasn't addressed in the article.

Also, who funded this study?

I stopped going to APS DFD a year or two ago because few people from my field show up anymore, but it is generally filled with strange talks like this.
 
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1. How is it possible for wombat poop to be in the shape of a cube?

Scientists have found that the wombat's digestive system plays a key role in shaping their feces into cubes. Wombats have a long and slow digestive process, which allows their intestines to absorb most of the moisture from their food. This results in very dry feces that can easily form into cubes.

2. Are all wombat's poops cubes?

No, not all wombat poops are cubes. This unique characteristic is specific to the common wombat species, while other species such as the northern hairy-nosed wombat have round-shaped feces. The reason for this difference is still unknown.

3. How do wombats benefit from having cubic feces?

It is believed that the cube shape of their feces helps wombats to mark their territory more effectively. The flat sides of the cube make it easier for the feces to stay in place and not roll away, creating a more visible and long-lasting scent marker.

4. Do all cubes have the same size and shape?

While most wombat feces are cube-shaped, their exact size and shape can vary. Some cubes may be more elongated or have slightly rounded edges. This is due to the wombat's intestines having different sections with varying levels of muscle contractions that help shape the feces.

5. Is there any scientific research on the cube-shaped wombat poop?

Yes, there have been several studies on the unique shape of wombat feces. Scientists have used 3D printing technology to recreate the cube shape and have also studied the wombat's digestive system to understand how it forms the cubes. This research can also provide insight into the evolution and behavior of wombats and other animals with similar digestive systems.

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