Gill function in an elasmobranch

Abstract

Highly efficient oxygen uptake in elasmobranchs, as indicated by frequent excess of PaO2 over PEO2 has previously been ascribed to the operation of multicapillary rather than counter-current gas exchange by the gills. Analysis of models shows that, at maximum efficiency, a multicapillary system cannot account for values of PaO2 greater than (PIO2+PEO2)/2. In Port Jackson sharks Heterodontus portusjacksoni) PaO2 commonly exceeds (PIO2+PEO2)/2, which indicates the operation of a functional counter-current at the respiratory surface. The anatomical basis of this counter-current is provided by the demonstration that a continuous flow of water passes between the secondary lamellae into septal canals and thence via the parabranchial cavities to the exterior.