Which of the following factors accounts for the efficiency of gas exchange in fish gills?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gas exchange in fish gills is efficient due to the combination of maximized surface area, minimized path length for diffusion, and countercurrent flow of blood and water. The large surface area of the gills allows for more oxygen to be absorbed, while minimizing the path length for diffusion allows for quicker exchange. The countercurrent flow of blood and water ensures that the concentration gradients are maintained along the entire length of the gill lamellae, allowing for the maximum amount of oxygen to be absorbed.

Which of the Following Factors Accounts for the Efficiency of Gas