6.4 - Gas Exchange in Fish Flashcards
The challenges bony fish face in extracting oxygen from water The structure and function of fish gills for gas exchange The countercurrent exchange system in fish gills
1
Q
Why do bony fish need specialised respiratory systems?
A
High oxygen needs
2
Q
What are some challenges of oxygen uptake in water?
A
Water density
3
Q
What structures allow bony fish to efficiently take up oxygen?
A
Gills
4
Q
What covers the gills?
A
Operculum flap
5
Q
What do gills consist of?
A
Stacked filaments containing gill lamellae
6
Q
What surrounds gill lamellae?
A
Extensive blood vessels
7
Q
What are adaptations of gills for efficient gas exchange?
A
Large surface area
8
Q
What is countercurrent flow?
A
Blood and water flow in opposite directions
9
Q
Why is countercurrent flow efficient?
A
Maximizes oxygen diffusion
10
Q
What happens in parallel flow?
A
Blood and water flow in the same direction
11
Q
Why is countercurrent exchange more efficient than parallel flow?
A
Maintains a steeper concentration gradient
