Why River Otters Have Bones… In Their Hearts

The video explores the presence of bone tissue in the hearts of river otters and other animals, contrasting it with the human cardiac skeleton, which is made of connective tissue. While bone in human hearts is a sign of disease, in animals like otters, it may be an adaptation to stress. Otters have large hearts relative to their body size, aiding their active aquatic lifestyle. The formation of bone tissue in their hearts is thought to be a response to physical stress, providing structural support. This adaptation highlights the body's ability to evolve new anatomical features in response to environmental demands.

What role does the size of river otters' hearts play in their aquatic lifestyle?

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Discuss the implications of the presence of bone in the hearts of otters as it relates to their health and stress.

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