Tunicates respiratory system consists of which structures?

Tunicates respiratory system consists of which structures?

• A. Lungs
• B. Gills
• C. Skin diffusion
• D. Tracheae

Answer: (B)

Gas exchange in tunicates happens through diffusion across moist surfaces, with the pharyngeal basket bearing gill slits that play a key role. Water passes through these slit-lined walls, bringing oxygen to the tissues and carrying away carbon dioxide. There are no lungs or tracheae in these animals, and while diffusion across the skin can occur, the structures most directly involved in respiration are the pharyngeal gill slits. That’s why the option describing gills best fits how tunicates exchange gases.

Gas exchange in tunicates happens through diffusion across moist surfaces, with the pharyngeal basket bearing gill slits that play a key role. Water passes through these slit-lined walls, bringing oxygen to the tissues and carrying away carbon dioxide. There are no lungs or tracheae in these animals, and while diffusion across the skin can occur, the structures most directly involved in respiration are the pharyngeal gill slits. That’s why the option describing gills best fits how tunicates exchange gases.