ISSN:
1430-3418
Keywords:
Deep sea
;
Haemocyanin
;
Hypoxia
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract The functional properties of the haemocyanin ofVampyroteuthis infernalis (Cephalopoda: Vampyromorpha), measured at 5 °C, are reported and discussed in relation to hypoxia. The oxygen affinity of this haemocyanin (P50=0.47−0.55 kPa) is higher than any previously measured for a cephalopod. The high cooperativity (n50=2.20−2.23) and Bohr coefficient (−0.22) suggest a true transport function for this haemocyanin. This high-affinity haemocyanin, in conjunction with moderate gill diffusion capacity, provides a sufficient oxygen gradient from the environment to the blood to support the low routine oxygen consumption rate of V. infernalis
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00898-999-0001-2