Breathe Deeply
Posted by Lori Williams on November 25, 2002
Q: Why do fish breathe more in warmer water
A: Their metabolism (chemical reactions are happening more quickly)is higher when they are warmer and therefore they need more oxygen to help fuel this activity. Warm-blooded animals (endotherms) need more oxygen than cold-blooded animals (ectotherms). This is one reason that animals like snakes, fish, and turtles can often go for rather long periods without food and not suffer. Mammals and birds need much food to help fuel their higher activity levels and can only stop eating if they hibernate.
John Wiessinger ( November 26, 2002)
Filed under: Fish