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Definition
Osmoregulation refers to the active regulation of an organism’s water and salt concentrations to maintain internal homeostasis.
Expanded Explanation
Without this regulatory process, organisms wouldn’t maintain internal fluid balance, leading to disruptions in cell function and overall health. This balance is integral to the survival of both aquatic and terrestrial organisms.
Importance
Without osmoregulation, organisms wouldn’t maintain their internal fluid balance, causing disruptions in cell function and overall health. This process is integral to the survival of both aquatic and terrestrial organisms.
Context and Usage
In biology, the focus often falls on kidney function in mammals, as kidneys are responsible for excreting excess water and toxins. Similarly, in marine life, this balance assists fish in adapting to varying saltwater concentrations.
Examples
- Example 1: In humans, osmoregulation involves the kidneys filtering blood and creating urine to remove waste and excess water.
- Example 2: In saltwater fish, gills play a significant role, excreting excess salts absorbed from the sea.
Understanding Osmoregulation
A common misconception is that this regulatory process only involves water balance. However, it also includes the regulation of ion concentrations, crucial for maintaining cellular function.
Related Glossary Terms
- Homeostasis: This physiological balance is a subset of homeostasis, focusing on water and ion balance.
- Kidney Function: The kidneys play a significant role in maintaining osmoregulation in humans by filtering blood and excreting waste.
Visual and Reading Aids
External Resources
- Britannica Overview: This article provides a comprehensive overview of the physiological balance and its importance.
- Osmoregulation in Fish at PubMed: This resource discusses osmoregulation in marine life, offering practical examples.
Related Articles
- Spectacular Survival: How Osmoregulation Helps Fish Thrive: Discover the intricate world of osmoregulation in fish, a key survival mechanism that enables these aquatic creatures to adapt and flourish in diverse water conditions.
- Humans: How-to Unveil the Magic of Osmoregulation Kidney Functions: Unpack the wonders of osmoregulation kidney functions and their pivotal role in health with our in-depth guide on Sunny Days Go!
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