hemolymph
Quick Summary
Hemolymph is the circulatory fluid found in many invertebrate animals, serving a function comparable to blood and lymph in vertebrates. In insects, for example, hemolymph fills the body cavities and circulates nutrients and waste products. It is not primarily involved in respiration but contains cells called hemocytes that help protect the insect by engulfing microorganisms.12
Invertebrates with open circulatory systems use hemolymph, which generally operates at lower pressures than closed systems found in vertebrates. The composition of hemolymph varies but typically includes ions, amino acids, and sometimes respiratory pigments like hemoglobin or hemocyanin, which aid in oxygen transport. Hemolysis, the breakdown of red blood cells, is a separate process related to blood biochemistry and is not directly a function of hemolymph itself.34
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insectDigestive system…by the circulatory fluid, or hemolymph, to the organs.
Read More…by the circulatory fluid, or hemolymph, to the organs.
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molluskThe circulatory system… in which body fluid (hemolymph) is transported largely within sinuses devoid of distinct epithelial walls. The posteriodorsal heart enclosed in a pericardium typically consists of a ventricle and two posterior auricles. Hemolymph is drained from ctenidia, gills, or other specialized respiratory epithelia into the respective auricles. The ventricle pumps…
Read More… in which body fluid (hemolymph) is transported largely within sinuses devoid of distinct epithelial walls. The posteriodorsal heart enclosed in a pericardium typically consists of a ventricle and two posterior auricles. Hemolymph is drained from ctenidia, gills, or other specialized respiratory epithelia into the respective auricles. The ventricle pumps…
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