Circulatory systems in Fish
Fish have a two-chambered heart and a single circulation.
This means that for every one circuit of the body, the blood passes through the heart once
Circulatory systems in Mammals
Mammals have a four-chambered heart and a double circulation.
This means that for every one circuit of the body, the blood passes through the heart twice.
The right side of the heart receives deoxygenated blood from the body and pumps it to the lungs (the pulmonary circulation).
The left side of the heart receives oxygenated blood from the lungs and pumps it to the body (the systemic circulation).
Advantages of Double Circulation
Blood travelling through the small capillaries in the lungs loses a lot of pressure that was given to it by the pumping of the heart, meaning it cannot travel as fast.
By returning the blood to the heart after going through the lungs its pressure can be raised again before sending it to the body, meaning cells can be supplied with the oxygen and glucose they need for respiration faster and more frequently.
How does oxygen exchange occur in the circulatory systems of fish and mammals?
What are the advantages of a double circulatory system in mammals?
How do the circulatory systems of fish and mammals adapt to their respective environments?
What are some common diseases that affect the circulatory systems of fish and mammals?
How do scientists study and compare the circulatory systems of different species?
What role do gills play in the circulatory system of fish?