Evolution of Oxygen Secretion in Fishes and the Emergence of a Complex Physiological System

• DOI: 10.1126/science.1107793
• Publication Date: 2005-03-18T04:18:34Z
• Authors: Michael Berenbrink; Pia Koldkjær; Oliver Kepp; Andrew R. Cossins
• Keywords: Bohr effect

We have reconstructed the events that led to evolution of a key physiological innovation underpinning large adaptive radiation fishes, namely their unique ability secrete molecular oxygen (O 2 ). show O secretion into swimbladder evolved some 100 million years after another -secreting system in eye. unravel likely sequence which functional components both systems evolved. These include ocular and countercurrent exchangers, Bohr Root effects, buffering power surface histidine content hemoglobins, red blood cell Na + /H exchange activity. Our synthesis reveals dynamics gains losses these multiple traits over time, accounting for part huge diversity form function living fishes.