Cells manage monovalent ions: fish

1 of 1 Northern Pike gills / SKSikkema / License

The gills of fish manage monovalent ion concentrations via specialized chloride cells.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain physical integrity >
	Regulate physiological processes >
	Homeostasis

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Water purification of ions, regulating ion concentration for chemical reactions.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Water flow over the secondary lamellae is countercurrent to capillary blood flow, resulting in extremely efficient oxygen extraction. Gills also function in monovalent ion regulation (via specialized chloride cells) and nitrogenous waste excretion (ammonia)." (Fowler and Miller 2003:4)

About the inspiring organism

Chordata
Chordata

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Water purification of ions, regulating ion concentration for chemical reactions.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Water, manufacturing

References

Fowler, ME; Miller, RE. 2003. Zoo and Wild Animal Medicine. Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders Co.

Cells manage monovalent ions: fish

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