Question

What is the outermost layer of the kidney called?

Answer 1

Hint: The kidney is the main excretory organ in animals that helps in the excretion of nitrogenous waste. The kidney consists of three outermost covers made up of fibrous tissue and fat. It helps in the protection of the kidney from injury.

Complete answer:
The outermost layer of the kidney is called renal fascia which consists of a fat layer known as the adipose capsule and inner to the adipose capsule a fibrous layer of connective tissue is formed which is known as a renal capsule. These outermost layers help to protect the kidney from infections and injury and anchor it to the abdominal wall.
The kidney is situated between the last thoracic and third lumbar vertebrae which lie close to the dorsal inner wall of the abdominal cavity. The kidney is bean-shaped with a reddish-brown colour and each kidney consists of a notch called hilum into the inner side through which the renal artery and nerve enter whereas the renal vein and the ureter project out. Inside the capsule of the kidney cortex and medulla are present which are divided into several conical areas called medullary pyramids. These medullary pyramids terminate into the renal papillae and show a connection with the calyces, these calyces open into the renal pelvis and lead to the ureter.

Note:
Generally it is considered that the renal capsule is the outermost covering of the kidney but the renal capsule is also covered by the renal fascia, therefore, the renal fascia is considered as the outermost covering of the kidney.
The fat layer of the kidney is also known as the perirenal fat capsule.