Grandes sistemas respiratorios

Marine mammals like dolphins, seals, and whales can hold their breath longer than humans. Mili, a humpback whale, inhales 3000 times more air per breath and absorbs over 90% of the oxygen, compared to less than 20% in humans. This efficiency is due to higher myoglobin levels in its muscles, which is a more effective oxygen transporter than hemoglobin. Mili uses fewer muscles while swimming, reducing heartbeat and blood flow, thus conserving oxygen. This allows Mili to breathe 4-5 times per minute and dive for up to 20 minutes.

What is a common characteristic of all mammals, including marine mammals?

• They can all fly.

• They all breathe air through their lungs.

• They all live in water.

• They all have gills.

How does Mili, the humpback whale, differ from humans in terms of breathing?

• Mili does not need to inhale air.

• Mili inhales less air than humans.

• Mili inhales the same amount of air as humans.

• Mili inhales 3000 times more air than humans.

What percentage of oxygen do marine mammals like Mili absorb from the air they inhale?

• About 70%

• Exactly 50%

• More than 90%

• Less than 20%

What is the role of myoglobin in marine mammals?

• It helps them digest food faster.

• It allows them to see in the dark.

• It is a more effective oxygen transporter than hemoglobin.

• It helps them fly.

How do marine mammals conserve oxygen while swimming?

• By holding their breath indefinitely.

• By increasing their heartbeat.

• By using more muscles.

• By using fewer muscles and slowing their heartbeat.