MAMMALIAN ADAPTATIONS TO DIVING

A comprehensive review is given of the literature dealing with mammalian adaptations to diving. Respiratory and cardiovascular changes are particularly emphasized. Other subjects pertaining to diving adaptations such as fluid conservation, temperature maintenance, propulsion, underwater vision, and navigation are also included in the discussion. The review suggests that there is a remarkable integration of the adaptations and acclimatizations involved in the breath-hold diving response. On the basis of these studies, a new pathophysiological mechanism for understanding the etiology of decompression sickness is presented in the conclusion. In addition, applications of responses associated with diving to clinical medicine and prediction of diving performance are discussed. Wherever possible, comparison of human breath-hold divers to aquatic mammals is made.