Question

many organism have impressive respiratory capabilities that are adaptation to specific enformintal challenge. for lake titicaca frog (Telmatobius culeus) describe the environmental challenge faced by the organism and the adaption of the organism to that challenge (be thorough)

Answer 1

Lake Titicaca frog or Telmatobius coleus is a fresh water aquatic frog species located in Lake Titicaca and they have special adaptation in terms of respiration. They have baggy appearance with dermal folds which helps in cutaneous gas exchange as it increases the surface area that is required for gaseous exchange. The dermal folds also tend to act as gills and this helps to respire in the water. They have adaptation to exist in water at high elevations as they have specialized skin structure that helps in securing oxygen and take care of the metabolic demand of the frog.

Although it is adapted to cutaneous gas exchange and it becomes almost impossible when there is decrease in level of oxygen. They have lungs that are reduced and poorly vascularized and hence respiration takes place only via the dermal folds that hang from the dorsum, hinds and sides. It faces a lot of difficult when it comes in touch with hypoxic conditions as the skin is not able to help respiration and it is prevented from surfacing