3 Animals That Breathe Through Their Butts

The video explores how various animals, including turtles, dragonflies, and sea cucumbers, have adapted to breathe underwater using cloacal respiration. This method allows them to extract oxygen efficiently and, in some cases, aids in defense or propulsion. Turtles, for instance, use cloacal bursae to breathe while hibernating, saving energy. Dragonflies use their cloacas for both respiration and escaping predators. Sea cucumbers utilize respiratory trees for oxygen intake and can eject sticky tubes for defense. These adaptations highlight the diverse solutions animals have developed to survive in aquatic environments.

What is the primary challenge for animals that spend most of their time underwater?

• Avoiding predators

• Finding food

• Maintaining body temperature

• Obtaining oxygen

How do Fitzroy River turtles primarily obtain their oxygen?

• Via cloacal respiration

• Using their lungs

• Through their mouths

• Through their skin

Why is cloacal respiration particularly beneficial for hibernating turtles?

• It conserves energy

• It allows them to eat less

• It improves their vision

• It helps them stay warm

What unique ability do baby dragonflies have that helps them escape predators?

• Flying at high speeds

• Burrowing into the ground

• Rapid swimming using cloacal propulsion

• Camouflage

How do sea cucumbers defend themselves when threatened?

• By changing color

• By releasing toxins

• By hiding in the sand

• By shooting sticky tubes