How do whales and dolphins quench their thirst? (3 photos)

For the normal functioning of the body in all mammals need water, including those that live in the seas. And the liquid must be fresh.





Sea water is absolutely not suitable for dolphins and whales, because their kidneys are not able to process the amount of salt that is in it contained. If an animal consumes it, dehydration will occur. body and it will die. Without fresh water, they also will not survive. But how do whales and dolphins living in salt water quench their thirst? Where do they take fresh water?

Marine mammals don't drink!

Whales and dolphins do not drink water, this is not provided by nature. They do not live in fresh water bodies, and sea water is dangerous for them. At these animals do not have a desalination apparatus that marine fish have: they simply do not need gills, as they breathe air. That's why mammals cannot filter out the salt contained in water. The only way out for whales and dolphins is not to drink at all.



Where do they get the liquid from?

Water is necessary for whales and dolphins, but they cannot drink it, so they have to get moisture in a different way. The liquid enters mammalian organism through food. These animals eat squid, plankton and fish, and they, in turn, consist of more than 70% fresh water. This amount of moisture is enough for dolphins and whales, for the body to function properly.

Whales and dolphins are economical

Marine mammals use the water they receive very little, therefore, it is not necessary to extract it in large quantities. Majority mammals spend water to restore the water-salt balance, elimination of toxins and maintenance of the desired body temperature, but in dolphins and whales don't have that need. They try to live in the waters with stable temperature and by nature do not know how to sweat. another they almost do not emit liquid. So they usually have enough water for a long time.



whale food

In addition, these animals know how to use their own resources. Whales are able to release moisture during the breakdown of the body fats. This personal supply can help out a mammal when it gets food. does not work, or the water temperature is warmer than necessary.