What is the key advantage of countercurrent gas exchange in fish gills?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the main benefit of the countercurrent gas exchange mechanism observed in fish gills. It is aimed at understanding the physiological advantages of this system in terms of diffusion and efficiency in oxygen uptake.
Answer
Maintains a constant oxygen concentration gradient, enhancing diffusion.
The final answer is that countercurrent gas exchange in fish gills maintains a constant concentration gradient, maximizing the amount of oxygen that diffuses into the blood.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is that countercurrent gas exchange in fish gills maintains a constant concentration gradient, maximizing the amount of oxygen that diffuses into the blood.
More Information
Countercurrent gas exchange in fish gills is a highly efficient system that allows for maximum oxygen uptake from water. By maintaining a gradient where water has more oxygen than blood, oxygen diffuses more effectively across the gill membranes.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming that countercurrent doesn't require a gradient; the continuous gradient is crucial.
Sources
- An efficient exchange: countercurrent oxygen exchange in fish - fishbio.com
- Explain what is meant by counter current exchange in fish? - mytutor.co.uk
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