Blood gill
- Pronunciation
- /blood-gill/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Blood gill
- Plural
- Blood gills
Definition
A respiratory organ found in some aquatic insects, particularly those belonging to certain orders such as Diptera. These structures are located externally and function by absorbing dissolved oxygen from the surrounding water.
Etymology
From 'blood' referring to the circulatory system and 'gill' referring to a respiratory organ.
Example
The blood gills of aquatic larvae allow them to breathe underwater.
Related Terms
- Respiration
- Aquatic insects
- Larvae
- Tracheal gills
Usage Notes
Blood gills are not true gills like those found in fish, but rather elongated structures that facilitate oxygen uptake from the environment.