Reptiles and mammals both have a four chambered heart yet reptiles utilize the sun to monitor body temperature while mammals control body temperature internally. What does this mean about the separation of oxygenated (blood that already picked up oxygen from the lungs) and deoxygenated blood (blood that has already visited the mitochondria and donated its oxygen to Cell Resp) in each type of animals heart?
The separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood in the heart is different for reptiles and mammals, despite both having a four-chambered heart.
In reptiles, such as reptiles like lizards, snakes, and turtles, the heart has a partially divided ventricle called a "ventricular septum." This septum helps to ensure that some mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood occurs in the heart. This means that there is still some mixing of blood in reptiles' hearts, resulting in a lower efficiency in the delivery of oxygen to the body tissues.
When reptiles bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature, the blood flow is adjusted to absorb heat from the sun and regulate their internal temperature. The sun's warmth helps to raise their body temperature by increasing the circulation of blood between the skin and the internal organs.
On the other hand, in mammals, such as humans, dogs, and cats, the heart has a fully divided ventricle with a complete septum, which prevents mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. This separation allows for a more efficient delivery of oxygen to the body tissues.
Mammals control their body temperature internally, meaning they can maintain a relatively constant body temperature regardless of external environmental conditions. This is achieved through processes like shivering or sweating to increase or decrease body heat production. The internal temperature regulation in mammals allows for a more stable and optimal environment for various bodily functions.
Overall, the difference in the separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood in the heart reflects the physiological adaptations of reptiles and mammals to their respective lifestyles and environments. It highlights how their hearts are structured to meet their unique metabolic and thermoregulatory needs.