6.3 - Gas Exchange in Insects Flashcards
Why insects need gas exchange systems Structural and functional compromises in insect gas exchange The structures involved in insect gas exchange How gas exchange occurs in insects Additional ventilation mechanisms in insects (16 cards)
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Why do insects need gas exchange?
- To deliver oxygen to cells
- To remove carbon dioxide from cells
Why do insects need efficient gas exchange systems?
2 reasons but there really obvious bro
To deliver oxygen to cells - This allows aerobic respiration to occur to release energy for cellular processes.
To remove carbon dioxide from cells - The build up of carbon dioxide produced as a waste product of respiration reduces pH, which can denature enzymes.
What conflicting needs do insect gas exchange systems balance? (Check)
Maximizing gas exchange
Minimise water loss
What covers the insect exoskeleton to prevent water loss?
Waterproof cuticle
What are the main structures of the insect gas exchange system? Check
Tracheae
What are tracheae?
Air-filled tubes branching throughout the body
What are tracheoles?
Fine branches of tracheae delivering gases to cells
What are spiracles?
External openings of the tracheal system
What are adaptations of tracheae?check!
Reinforced with chitin
What are adaptations of tracheoles?
Name 3
- Penetrate directly into tissues - This reduces the gas diffusion distance.
- Thin walls - These reduce the gas diffusion distance.
- Highly branched - This maximises the surface area.
- Not reinforced with chitin - This allows gas exchange to occur.
- Fluid at the ends of the tracheoles (tracheal fluid) - This allows oxygen to dissolve to aid diffusion and reduces
What are adaptations of spiracles?
Open and close - This allows them to control gas exchange with the atmosphere and minimise water loss.
There is only 1 doesnt need to be checked
How does gas exchange occur in insects? Check
Air enters spiracles
How are concentration gradients maintained? Check
Oxygen used in respiration
What are other ventilation mechanisms in insects? Check
Mechanical active ventilation
How does lactate accumulation affect gas exchange? Check
Reduces water potential
