Evolution of the Heart: Size, Shape, and Composition.!
The structure of the heart varies significantly between species, reflecting their different physiological needs and evolutionary adaptations. While the heart's basic function remains the same — pumping blood to distribute oxygen and nutrients throughout the body — its data-size, shape, and composition undergo significant changes.
In mammals, however, we see a remarkable innovation: the four-chambered heart. Mammals, including humans, have a dual circulatory system that efficiently separates oxygenated and de-oxygenated blood. This allows for greater systemic efficiency and a higher metabolic rate, necessary for the active lifestyle of warm-blooded animals.
In some species, such as marine mammals such as whales and dolphins, unique adaptations allow them to withstand tremendous pressure and long periods of time underwater. These adaptations include the ability to slow heart rate while diving, redirect blood flow to vital organs, and store more oxygen in muscles.
In mammals, however, we see a remarkable innovation: the four-chambered heart. Mammals, including humans, have a dual circulatory system that efficiently separates oxygenated and de-oxygenated blood. This allows for greater systemic efficiency and a higher metabolic rate, necessary for the active lifestyle of warm-blooded animals.
In some species, such as marine mammals such as whales and dolphins, unique adaptations allow them to withstand tremendous pressure and long periods of time underwater. These adaptations include the ability to slow heart rate while diving, redirect blood flow to vital organs, and store more oxygen in muscles.