How does a marine iguana maintain homeostasis despite ingesting large amount of salt with food
Marine iguanas have several adaptations that allow them to maintain homeostasis despite ingesting large amounts of salt with their food.
1. Nasal glands: Marine iguanas have nasal glands that filter out excess salt from their bloodstream. These glands excrete a salty solution from the nostrils, allowing the iguana to get rid of excess salt.
2. Kidneys: Marine iguanas have larger kidneys compared to other species of iguanas. These kidneys are efficient at filtering out excess salt and excreting it through urination.
3. Salt glands: Marine iguanas have special salt glands located near their eyes that excrete excess salt from their bloodstream. This salty solution is then expelled through the eyes or through the cheeks.
4. Behavioral adaptations: Marine iguanas have behavioral adaptations that also help them maintain homeostasis. For example, they are known to bask in the sun for long periods to regulate their body temperature. This reduces the need for them to sweat, which would result in the loss of water.
Overall, these adaptations allow marine iguanas to maintain balance in their salt and water levels, even when they ingest large amounts of salt with their food.