What are gill filaments?
Gill filaments are delicate, highly vascularized structures that extend from the gill arches and provide a large surface area for gas exchange.
They are responsible for absorbing oxygen from water and releasing carbon dioxide.
How oxygen exchange occurs
As water flows over the gill filaments:
- Oxygen diffuses into the bloodstream
- Carbon dioxide diffuses out
This process is extremely efficient but depends on clean, well-oxygenated water.
Sensitivity to water quality
Gill filaments are highly sensitive to:
Damage to gill filaments can cause rapid breathing, lethargy, and suffocation.
Aquarium considerations
- Ensure adequate aeration using an air pump
- Maintain proper filtration
- Avoid sudden water parameter swings
Healthy gill filaments are essential for fish survival.