Main Museo del Mar

Adaptation for diving

Marine mammals can dive for prolonged periods of time while searching for food or to flee from danger. There are a number of different adaptations that permit these mammals to make such prolonged dives. Their bodies are designed to support the considerable hydrostatic pressures of the deep waters, enabling them to descend without harming their organs or tissues. Their respiratory system is highly efficient, as easily 80% of the volume of air in the lungs can be renewed, compared to 30% as is the case with any land mammal, man included.

Ground Floor