Verified Solution Science Life Processes

Why do aquatic organisms breathe much faster than terrestrial organisms?

1 views 1 helpful Updated Jul 1, 2026
Solution ✔ Verified
  • AAquatic organisms have a higher metabolic rate.
  • BThe concentration of dissolved oxygen in water is much lower than in air.
  • CTheir gills are less efficient than lungs in extracting oxygen.
  • DThey need to expel more carbon dioxide from their bodies.
Explanation

The concentration of dissolved oxygen in water is significantly lower (around 1%) compared to oxygen in the air (around 21%). Therefore, aquatic organisms must breathe faster to obtain sufficient oxygen for their metabolic needs.

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