7 Unique Creatures That Thrive Without Oxygen

Shubhi Kumar
Nov 25, 2024

Golden Fish

These fish survive low oxygen by converting lactic acid to ethanol, which they release through gills.

Crucian Carp

Known for enduring hypoxia, they metabolize carbohydrates anaerobically, producing ethanol as a byproduct.

Bats

Certain bats slow their metabolism during torpor, tolerating low oxygen environments in hibernation caves.

Turtles

During hibernation, turtles survive low oxygen by slowing metabolism and storing lactate in their shells.

Catfish

Some catfish species withstand oxygen scarcity by gulping air and storing it in special respiratory organs.

Pufferfish

Pufferfish tolerate low oxygen by temporarily reducing metabolic rates and accessing oxygen from aquatic plants.

Tardigrades

These microscopic organisms enter cryptobiosis, halting metabolism entirely, surviving without oxygen for extended periods.

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