The ileum is the final section of the small intestine in most higher vertebrates, including mammals, reptiles, and birds. In fish, the divisions of the small intestine are not as clear and the terms posterior intestine or distal intestine may be used instead of ileum. The ileum follows the duodenum and jejunum, and is separated from the cecum by the ileocecal valve (ICV). In humans, the ileum is about 2-4 m long, and the pH is usually between 7 and 8 (neutral or slightly alkaline). Function The… (More on Ileum)