Gaseous exchange takes place through the plasma membrane in
Answer Details
Gaseous exchange is a biological process through which different gases are transferred in opposite directions across a specialized respiratory surface. When it comes to simple organisms, this exchange can occur directly through the plasma membrane. The organism where gaseous exchange takes place through the plasma membrane is the paramecium.
Here is a simple explanation:
Hydra: This is a simple aquatic organism; gaseous exchange can occur through its entire body surface because of its simple body structure.
Paramecium: As a single-celled organism, paramecium relies on its plasma membrane for gaseous exchange. Oxygen from the surrounding water diffuses across the membrane into the cell, and carbon dioxide diffuses out. The plasma membrane is thin and semi-permeable, allowing this process to happen effectively.
Flatworm: Flatworms have a larger surface area compared to their volume, and they also rely on diffusion through their body surface for gaseous exchange.
Earthworm: This is a more complex organism. Earthworms have a moist skin through which gaseous exchange takes place. They possess a dense network of capillaries under the skin that facilitates this exchange.
In conclusion, paramecium utilizes its plasma membrane for gaseous exchange due to its single-celled structure, allowing direct diffusion of gases.