Which of the following is NOT a function of the liver?

The liver plays a critical role in various bodily functions, including regulating metabolism, storing glycogen, and detoxifying harmful substances. One of its primary functions is to manage metabolic processes by converting nutrients into energy and regulating blood sugar levels. The liver also stores glycogen, which serves as a readily available energy source when needed. Additionally, the liver is highly effective at detoxifying harmful substances, such as drugs and toxins, thereby protecting the body from their potential damage.

However, the production of red blood cells is not a function of the liver. Instead, this process primarily occurs in the bone marrow, where precursor cells differentiate into mature red blood cells. This clarification distinguishes the liver from other organs involved in the hematopoietic (blood-forming) processes in the body. Understanding the specific roles of organs is crucial in veterinary science, as each plays distinct yet complementary roles in maintaining overall health.