HEART POSITION IN SNAKES AND GRAVITATIONAL PRESSURE

Paragraph 1:
Animals that frequently assume vertical postures must find ways to adapt to increased gravitational
pressure on the cardiovascular system.

(Explain the giraffe example here). In snakes, this effect is

evident due to their long-filled tubes. Snakes are limbless, elongated and lack a pectoral girdle. Though
restricted in limb movement, they have evolved to occupy all ecological niches. Regardless of its
evolutionary success, its body plan affects its cardiovascular function. How is this so? In a vertical
column of fluid, gravity creates a vertical pressure gradient that increases with tube height. This pressure
has physiological consequences; for example, increased gravitational pressure will distend the distal veins
below the heart and may cause significant blood pooling and increased plasma leakage into the
surrounding tissues. .
Paragraph 2: (For at least two reasons)
Snakes form an interesting group to study potential cardiovascular adaptations.
(Paraphrase two paragraphs on Page 46 starting with For at least two reasons and The utility of
snakes)