- External respiration involves diffusion of gases between the blood and the external environment.
- Mammals, birds, and fish all use different methods of ventilation to bring fresh supplies of air or water to the exchange areas.
- The exchange area (alveoli, parabronchi or 2¡ lamellae) maximizes surface area and minimizes diffusion distance.
- The respiratory system may also function in olfaction, temperature regulation and sound generation.
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