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Anatomy and Physiology of Animals: Respiratory System
Introduction
Respiration:
Respiration is the process of gas exchange between the air and an organism's cells. It is crucial for survival as it provides oxygen to cells and eliminates carbon dioxide, a waste product of cellular metabolism.
Types of Respiration
Internal Respiration:
Occurs within the body, where oxygen from the air is taken up by the bloodstream and transported to cells. Carbon dioxide is released from cells into the bloodstream and exhaled.
External Respiration:
Takes place in the lungs (or gills in aquatic animals), where oxygen is absorbed from the air and carbon dioxide is released into the air.
Cellular Respiration:
Occurs within cells and generates energy (ATP) through chemical reactions involving glucose and oxygen (aerobic) or glucose alone (anaerobic).
Animal Lungs
Many animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and some amphibians, possess lungs for external respiration. The structure of lungs varies among species, but they generally consist of:
- Air sacs (alveoli) where gas exchange occurs
- Airways (bronchi and bronchioles) that carry air to and from the alveoli
- Muscles (diaphragm) that facilitate breathing
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