Foramen of Panizza
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The Foramen of Panizza is a unique anatomical feature found in the hearts of crocodilians, including crocodiles, alligators, and caimans. It is a small opening that connects the left and right aortae as they leave the heart. This foramen is named after the Italian anatomist Bartolomeo Panizza, who first described it.
Function[edit | edit source]
The Foramen of Panizza plays a crucial role in the circulatory system of crocodilians. It allows for the mixing of oxygenated blood from the left aorta with deoxygenated blood from the right aorta. This mixing is particularly important when the animal is submerged and not breathing air, as it helps to optimize the use of available oxygen.
During diving, the Foramen of Panizza enables the right-to-left shunt, which directs more blood to the systemic circulation and less to the pulmonary circulation. This adaptation is beneficial for conserving oxygen and maintaining efficient circulation while the animal is underwater.
Anatomical Details[edit | edit source]
The Foramen of Panizza is located at the base of the heart, between the left and right aortae. It is a small, valve-like structure that can open and close to regulate the flow of blood between the two aortae. This regulation is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which adjusts the blood flow based on the animal's activity and environmental conditions.
Evolutionary Significance[edit | edit source]
The presence of the Foramen of Panizza is considered an evolutionary adaptation that allows crocodilians to thrive in aquatic environments. It is a key feature that distinguishes their cardiovascular system from that of other reptiles and vertebrates.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- Panizza, B. (1833). Osservazioni sul cuore e sulla circolazione del sangue in alcuni animali vertebrati.
- Grigg, G., & Gans, C. (1993). Morphology and Physiology of the Crocodilian Cardiovascular System.
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