Spiracle
(Redirected from Spiraculum)
Spiracle
A spiracle is a small opening or pore found on the surface of some animals, which is used for respiration. Spiracles are most commonly associated with arthropods, particularly insects and some arachnids, as well as certain fish and amphibians. These structures play a crucial role in the respiratory systems of these organisms, allowing for the exchange of gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide.
In Arthropods[edit | edit source]
In arthropods, spiracles are part of the tracheal system, a network of tubes that directly deliver oxygen to tissues and remove carbon dioxide. Insects typically have a pair of spiracles on each segment of their bodies, although the number and arrangement can vary among species. The spiracles can open and close to regulate the flow of air and prevent water loss, which is particularly important for terrestrial insects.
In Fish[edit | edit source]
In certain fish, such as sharks and rays, spiracles are small openings located behind the eyes. These spiracles allow the fish to draw water into their gills while they are at rest, facilitating respiration even when the mouth is closed or buried in sediment. This adaptation is especially useful for bottom-dwelling species.
In Amphibians[edit | edit source]
Some amphibians, particularly those that have a larval stage, possess spiracles. For example, tadpoles have spiracles that function as part of their gill system, allowing them to breathe underwater. As they undergo metamorphosis and develop lungs, the spiracles typically close or become less prominent.
Function and Adaptation[edit | edit source]
The primary function of spiracles is to facilitate respiration by allowing the intake of oxygen and the expulsion of carbon dioxide. The ability to open and close spiracles helps organisms conserve water and protect against environmental hazards. In some species, spiracles have evolved to serve additional functions, such as aiding in buoyancy control or serving as sensory organs.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD