Why Don't Marine Animals Get "The Bends"?

The video explores decompression sickness, commonly known as the bends, which poses a significant risk to divers due to pressure changes. It explains why marine animals like seals and whales rarely suffer from the bends, thanks to their unique physiological adaptations. These animals can collapse parts of their lungs and redirect blood flow to minimize gas absorption. While these adaptations help them avoid the bends, they also limit oxygen intake, which marine animals manage by storing more oxygen or tolerating lower levels. The video concludes that these adaptations are unlikely to be applicable to humans.

Explain the concept of ventilation perfusion mismatch in diving animals.

What are some of the mysteries that remain regarding how certain diving birds avoid the bends?