Rheology of Marine Animal Blood

The book titled Rheology of Marine Animal Blood is structured into four chapters. Marine mammals-such as seals, whales, and dolphins-have evolved specialized hematological and cardiovascular adaptations that support prolonged apnea and peripheral vasoconstriction during deep and extended dives. These adaptations include elevated hematocrit levels, increased hemoglobin concentration, and modified red blood cell (RBC) morphology, all of which influence the rheological properties of their blood. While these features enhance oxygen storage and delivery, they also carry the potential risk of increased blood viscosity, which can hinder circulation, particularly in microvascular regions. Studying the rheological properties of marine mammal blood offers critical insights into how these animals maintain efficient blood flow under extreme diving conditions. Parameters such as viscosity, RBC aggregation and deformability, and plasma composition play vital roles in ensuring circulatory stability and effective tissue oxygenation.