Abstract
1. 1. Lung morphology and its dual function as a hydrostatic and gas exchange organ are described for the sea snake, Pelamis platurus. 2. 2. The lung volume is large and surface-resting snakes have a high positive buoyancy. 3. 3. Prior to diving, buoyancy is reduced although snakes remain positively buoyant. 4. 4. With prolonged submergence, neutral or negative buoyancy is attained due to compression of lung volume with depth and the removal of O 2 from the lung without equivalent replacement of CO 2. 5. 5. The respiratory and hydrostatic functions of the lung are highly compatible and relate well to the swimming and feeding behaviour of this snake.
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