The only animals that do not breathe air are aquatic animals that live in water, like fish, whales, dolphins, and some invertebrates.
How do aquatic animals breathe?
These animals have evolved specialized adaptations to extract oxygen from the water:
- Fish: They use gills, which are feathery organs that absorb oxygen dissolved in water.
- Whales and dolphins: These marine mammals breathe air through their lungs, but they can hold their breath for long periods. They surface regularly to breathe.
- Invertebrates: Some invertebrates, like crustaceans and mollusks, have gills or other specialized structures for oxygen absorption.
Do any other animals not breathe air?
While some animals, like turtles and frogs, can hold their breath for extended periods, they still require air to survive. Therefore, all animals, except those living entirely underwater, breathe air.
