Explain how a fish is adapted for gas exchange?

A fish had gills, made up of gill filaments containing lamellae, which provide a very large surface area for oxygen to diffuse out of the water as it moves over them. The blood vessels are in very close proximity to the lamellae, allowing a short diffusion pathway. A fish also utilises a countercurrent system, where the blood flows in the opposite direction to the water across the gills. This allows a concentration gradient to be maintained, so oxygen moves into the blood along the entire length of the gill.

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the features of alveolar epithelium which allow efficient gas exchange?


Describe the relationship between different hormones regulating the menstrual cycle?


Describe the differences between active transport and facilitated diffusion.


Describe how a vaccine leads to production of antibody against the disease (4 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences