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Ch. 42 - Circulation and Gas Exchange
Chapter 42, Problem 1

Which of the following respiratory systems is not closely associated with a blood supply? a. the lungs of a vertebrate b. the gills of a fish c. the tracheal system of an insect d. the skin of an earthworm

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1
Identify the respiratory systems listed and understand their association with blood supply.
Recognize that both the lungs of vertebrates and the gills of fish are highly vascularized, meaning they have a rich supply of blood vessels for gas exchange.
Understand that the skin of an earthworm also serves as a respiratory organ and is closely associated with the blood supply to facilitate gas exchange through the skin.
Learn that the tracheal system of an insect involves a network of tubes that directly deliver oxygen to tissues and cells, bypassing the circulatory system, hence it is not closely associated with a blood supply.
Conclude that the correct answer is c. the tracheal system of an insect.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Respiratory Systems

Respiratory systems are biological structures that facilitate the exchange of gases, primarily oxygen and carbon dioxide, between an organism and its environment. Different organisms have evolved various respiratory systems suited to their habitats, such as lungs in vertebrates, gills in fish, and tracheae in insects. Understanding these systems is crucial for analyzing how organisms adapt to their environments and meet their metabolic needs.
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Blood Supply and Gas Exchange

In many respiratory systems, a close association with a blood supply is essential for efficient gas exchange. Blood vessels transport oxygen from the respiratory surface to tissues and carry carbon dioxide back for exhalation. However, some organisms, like insects, utilize a tracheal system that delivers oxygen directly to cells without the need for a circulatory system, highlighting the diversity of respiratory adaptations.
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Tracheal System in Insects

The tracheal system is a network of tubes that transport air directly to the tissues of insects, allowing for efficient gas exchange without relying on a blood supply. This system consists of spiracles that open to the outside and lead to a series of branching tubes called tracheae. The direct delivery of oxygen to cells enables insects to thrive in various environments, but it also means their respiratory system is less dependent on blood circulation compared to vertebrates and other organisms.
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