Amphibians possess a three-chambered heart comprising two atria and one ventricle. This structure allows for a more efficient separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood than in fish, supporting their dual aquatic and terrestrial lifestyles.
- The heart has two atria (right and left) and one ventricle.
- It separates oxygenated blood from deoxygenated blood to a degree.
- Supports amphibians' adaptation to both aquatic and terrestrial environments.
Functionality
The three-chambered heart in amphibians enhances their physiological capabilities by partially separating oxygen-rich blood from carbon dioxide-rich blood. Although both types of blood mix in the single ventricle, the design minimizes mixing and allows for more efficient oxygen delivery to the body.
- The right atrium receives deoxygenated blood from the body.
- The left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the lungs.
- Blood is pumped into the single ventricle and distributed to the body and lungs.
Advantages
The three-chambered heart offers several advantages for amphibians adapting to life both in water and on land. It provides a more effective means of oxygenating blood than the two-chambered heart found in fish and supports higher metabolic rates required for terrestrial activities.
- Allows for higher metabolic rates than fish hearts.
- Supports both gill and lung respiration.
- Facilitates adaptation to terrestrial life by improving circulatory efficiency.