Aerobic Dive Limit PDF

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Define the aerobic dive limit (ADL) of diving vertebrates and discuss the adaptations of vertebrate divers that increase the ADL by maximising O2 storage and minimising O2 use when diving....

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Aerobic Dive Limit Define the aerobic dive limit (ADL) of diving vertebrates and discuss the adaptations of vertebrate divers that increase the ADL by maximising O2 storage and minimising O2 use when diving. There are a wide range of diving vertebrates including obligate air-breathing fishes (Lungfish), non-airbreathing fish (Tuna), amphibians (frogs), reptiles (crocodiles), birds (penguins and ducks) and mammals (seals and whales). Define the aerobic dive limit -Accomplished Divers Due to increasing lung volume mostly just increasing the storage of nitrogen, it is much more efficient to increase oxygen storage. There are three ways in which oxygen storage can be increased. Increase blood volume Increasing spleen storage capacity Increasing O2 storage on myoglobin in muscles – explain positive electrical charge allows large concentration of myoglobin in muscles. Diving is not just about taking on as much oxygen as possible, but also conserving as much oxygen as possible during the dive so the dive can last much longer. There are seven ways diving mammals reduce oxygen use. 1) Diving Reflex – bradycardia and peripheral vasoconstriction 2) Streamlined shape, efficient propulsion and neutral buoyancy 3) Counter current Vascular System 4) Enhanced Bohr Effect 5) Reduced sensitivity to CO2 in the respiratory control centres of the brain 6) Large body mass 7) Lactate retention in the muscles if the animal exceeds the aerobic dive limit...