- Series:Animals, Transcript English
When little or no oxygen is dissolved in the blood of most animals or humans, death quickly follows. The chemistry by which our cells generate energy to stay alive needs oxygen. When oxygen runs short, a second, temporary, energy-producing system kicks in. This system doesn’t need oxygen, but it produces lactic acid that can kill living cells. Therefore, this second energy system is an emergency measure, used only when seriously starved for oxygen.
To avoid this dangerous situation, many amphibians and reptiles that hibernate in ponds, lakes and rivers have the ability to remove oxygen directly from the water through special tissue on their throats. However, the painted turtle and the mud slider hibernate as close to the freezing line below the water as possible. As a result, they often hibernate in water where the oxygen is quickly used and have lived completely without oxygen for up to 120 days. How do they do it?
During the summer, the turtle stores large amounts of a carbohydrate that can provide energy without using oxygen. The turtle has a unique built-in system that detoxifies the poisonous lactic acid that is built up. As a result, the turtle can live for months with no oxygen in its blood or in the water around it.
This unique ability is based on a sophisticated understanding of biochemistry. It’s clearly not the result of a genetic accident. It can only be the work of the unique creativity of our Creator!
Psalm 105:5
“Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth…”
Prayer: Lord, there is nothing that is impossible for You. I thank You for Your love for me in carrying my sin to the cross and rising from the dead so that I might have new life. Let me never forget that Your great power is used in love for me. Amen.
Notes: Janet M. Storey and Kenneth B. Storey. “Out Cold.” Natural History, 1/92, pp. 23-25. Photo: Envato
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