Gill filaments stacked up in a pile, branching into gill lamellae.
1 of 6
What is meant by the countercurrent flow?
Water flows in the opposite direction to blood.
2 of 6
What is the advantage of the countercurrent flow?
Ensures that the maximum possible gas exchange is achieved. There is a diffusion gradient all the way across the gill which allows the diffusion of oxygen across the width of the gill.
3 of 6
Describe two ways in which a diffusion gradient is maintained.
1.)Ventilation by water flow so new water is passed over their gills continuously. 2.)Countercurrent flow.
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What are the features that give gills a large surface area?
Lamellae on filaments and lots of both.
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What is the relationship between gill surface area and swimming speed?
More oxygen can be supplied for more respiration.
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Other cards in this set
Card 2
Front
What is meant by the countercurrent flow?
Back
Water flows in the opposite direction to blood.
Card 3
Front
What is the advantage of the countercurrent flow?
Back
Card 4
Front
Describe two ways in which a diffusion gradient is maintained.
Back
Card 5
Front
What are the features that give gills a large surface area?
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