Gills

Gills are specialized respiratory organs found in many aquatic animals, such as fish, amphibians, and some invertebrates. They enable these creatures to extract oxygen from water, which is vital for survival. Gills usually consist of thin, feather-like structures that increase the surface area for gas exchange. When water flows over the gills, oxygen is absorbed into the blood, while carbon dioxide is released. This process allows aquatic animals to breathe underwater, similar to how lungs function for air-breathing animals. The efficiency of gills is crucial for the survival of marine and freshwater organisms.