👉 Onychophagy refers to a specific type of phagocytosis in which cells engulf and digest their own nails or other nail-like structures, such as toenails. This process is crucial for many organisms that have specialized mechanisms for maintaining their nail beds, including plants, animals, and fungi. The term "onychophagy" comes from the Latin word "onycha," meaning "to eat," which suggests that this behavior is driven by a need to conserve food resources or for
