why do fish die when removed in water
Fish die when removed from water because they rely on water to breathe, regulate their temperature, and receive the necessary amount of oxygen for survival.
Gills are the respiratory organs of fish, and they extract oxygen from the water by passing it over thin-walled membranes. This process allows fish to extract oxygen dissolved in the water and remove carbon dioxide. When a fish is removed from water, it loses access to this vital oxygen supply, and its gills are unable to extract oxygen from the air efficiently. As a result, fish suffocate and eventually die without water.
Moreover, water plays a crucial role in regulating a fish's body temperature. Water has a higher heat capacity than air, meaning it can absorb and retain more heat. Fish are ectothermic, meaning they rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature. When removed from water, fish are unable to maintain their optimal body temperature, and their physiological processes start to malfunction, leading to death.
Additionally, fish have evolved to live in water, which provides buoyancy and supports their body shape. Without the buoyancy provided by water, the internal organs of fish can collapse, leading to further complications and potentially death.
In summary, fish need water for breathing, temperature regulation, and physical support. Without water, they cannot survive for long.
When fish are taken out of water, they start to experience several changes that eventually lead to their death. Here are the steps that occur:
1. Lack of oxygen: Fish need oxygen to survive, and they obtain it from the water through their gills. When they are removed from water, they cannot extract oxygen from the air like mammals do. As a result, their oxygen supply rapidly depletes.
2. Accumulation of waste: Fish excrete waste products, such as ammonia, into the water they live in. While in water, these waste products are diluted and removed. However, when fish are out of water, the waste starts to accumulate in their bodies, leading to toxic levels.
3. Dehydration: Fish have a slimy layer on their bodies called the mucus layer, which helps prevent water loss. When they are removed from water, this layer starts to dry out, causing rapid dehydration.
4. Temperature imbalance: Water helps regulate the body temperature of fish. When they are taken out of their natural environment, their body temperature rises or drops rapidly, depending on the surrounding conditions. This drastic temperature change can be detrimental to their overall health.
5. Organ failure: As a result of the aforementioned factors, fish experience organ failure, particularly damage to their gills, which are responsible for the oxygen exchange. Without enough oxygen and water, the organs, including the brain, heart, and liver, start to shut down, eventually leading to death.
Therefore, it is crucial to handle fish with care and keep them in their suitable aquatic environments to maintain their health and survival.