Heart Physiology in Fish

Introduction

Fish, a group of aquatic vertebrates, possess a relatively simple heart structure.
Their heart is adapted to their aquatic lifestyle.

The Fish Heart

Fish have a two-chambered heart, consisting of:
- One atrium.
- One ventricle.
This heart structure is characteristic of a single circulatory system.

Fish Heart Diagram

Single Circulatory System

The single circulatory system means that blood is pumped through the heart once during each complete circuit through the body.
This system is simpler compared to the double circulatory systems of mammals, birds, and some reptiles.

Circulatory System Diagram

Physiological Adaptations

Fish have evolved specific adaptations to efficiently extract oxygen from water using gills.
The single circulatory system suits their oxygen exchange needs.

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Summary for Fish

Fish typically possess a two-chambered heart with one atrium and one ventricle.
Their heart is adapted for a single circulatory system, which is well-suited for extracting oxygen from water through gills.

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