Salmon eggs hatch in fresh water. The fish then migrate to the ocean (a hypertonic solution) and, after several years of feeding and growing, return to fresh water to breed. How can these organisms make the transition from fresh water to ocean water and back to fresh water?
A) The rectal gland functions in the ocean water, and chloride cells function in fresh water.
B) The salt transport mechanisms of the gill epithelia change during migration.
C) Salmon in fresh water excrete concentrated urine, and salmon in salt water secrete dilute urine.
D) Their metabolism changes in salt water to degrade electrolytes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Salmon have specialized gill epithelia that can alter their salt transport mechanisms, allowing them to adapt to both fresh water and ocean water environments.

Salmon Eggs Hatch in Fresh Water