Animals obtain phosphorus through their diet. Phosphorus is present in various foods such as meat, fish, dairy products, grains and legumes. Inorganic phosphorus is also found in water and soil, which are consumed by some animals such as aquatic animals or herbivores who graze on plants. Once ingested, phosphorus is absorbed in the small intestine and incorporated into the body's tissues, bones, and teeth. Some animals that lack access to dietary sources of phosphorus, such as some insects, may obtain it from other sources like feces or by consuming other animals that have already incorporated it into their bodies.
