Which ocular structure is responsible for producing aqueous humor?

The ciliary body is the structure responsible for producing aqueous humor, which is a clear fluid that fills the anterior chamber of the eye. This fluid plays a critical role in maintaining intraocular pressure, providing nutrients to the avascular structures within the eye, and facilitating waste removal. The ciliary body contains the ciliary processes, which are responsible for secreting the aqueous humor into the posterior chamber, from where it flows into the anterior chamber.

Understanding the function of the ciliary body is vital in veterinary ophthalmology, as many ocular conditions can arise from abnormalities in aqueous humor production or drainage, leading to issues such as glaucoma or lens luxation. The lens does not produce aqueous humor; rather, it focuses light entering the eye. The cornea is primarily involved in refracting light and does not have a role in aqueous production, and the retina is responsible for receiving light and transmitting signals to the brain but does not contribute to the production of aqueous humor.