How does marine iguana maintain homeostasis despite ingesting large amounts of salt with its food
Marine iguanas, unlike other species of iguanas, have adapted to their marine environment where they feed on seaweed and algae that are rich in salt. Since salt is not typically found in most terrestrial food sources, this poses a unique challenge for marine iguanas in maintaining homeostasis. Here are some ways in which marine iguanas have adapted:
1. Nasal Glands: Marine iguanas have specialized nasal glands that filter out excess salt from the blood as it passes through the nostrils, then excreting the salt in a concentrated solution.
2. Kidney Function: Marine iguanas' kidneys have evolved to concentrate urine, retaining as much water as possible. This ensures that they excrete salt through relatively dry feces, rather than urine, conserving valuable water.
3. Salt Excretion: When the levels of salt in their blood become too high, marine iguanas can excrete salt through specialized glandular cells located on their skin.
Through these adaptations, marine iguanas are able to maintain the right balance of salt and water in their bodies, essential for staying hydrated and healthy.