[Campbell Biology P.984] Which of the following is an adaptation of mature mammalian erythro... | Practice Question

Which of the following is an adaptation of mature mammalian erythrocytes that enhances their oxygen transport efficiency?

  • A: Presence of numerous mitochondria for ATP production.
  • B: Biconcave shape to increase surface area for O2 diffusion.
  • C: Presence of a large nucleus to control cellular activities.
  • D: Aerobic metabolism to maximize oxygen consumption.

Explanation

Mature mammalian erythrocytes lack nuclei and mitochondria, which maximizes internal space for hemoglobin, the oxygen-transporting protein. Their biconcave shape increases the surface area-to-volume ratio, facilitating efficient oxygen diffusion across the plasma membrane. Anaerobic metabolism ensures that the erythrocytes do not consume the oxygen they are meant to transport.