What other name is the excretory system known by?

The correct choice identifies the excretory system with the gastrointestinal system, as they both play crucial roles in maintaining the body's homeostasis, but it's important to clarify that the gastrointestinal system primarily focuses on digestion and nutrient absorption rather than excretion alone.

In the broader context, the excretory system, commonly referred to as the urinary system, is responsible for the elimination of waste products from the body, regulation of blood volume and pressure, and the maintenance of the body's electrolyte balance. This system primarily includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. On the other hand, while the gastrointestinal system deals with waste, its function is more about digesting food and absorbing nutrients rather than the elimination of metabolic waste.

The respiratory system is involved in the exchange of gases, specifically the intake of oxygen and the expulsion of carbon dioxide. The circulatory system is responsible for the distribution of blood, nutrients, and oxygen throughout the body. The nervous system manages communication between different body parts but is not directly involved in excretion.

Thus, while the gastrointestinal system does manage waste in terms of undigested food, it does not encompass the full range of functions associated with the excretory system, making it a less precise answer.