Dr. Matthew Mason: Further Information...
University Physiologist Tel: +44 (0)1223 333829, Fax: +44 (0)1223 333840, E-mail: mjm68@cam.ac.uk
Mason, M.J., Wenger, L.M.D., Hammer, Ø. & Blix, A.S. (2020) Structure and function of respiratory turbinates in phocid seals. Polar Biology 43: 157-173.
In a departure from my usual research on auditory systems, this paper compares the elaborate internal nasal structures of polar and monk seals. Polar seals have much more complex maxilloturbinate bones than the warmer-water monk seals, with a higher surface area and narrower spaces between adjacent bones. This is consistent with a hypothesis that they are primarily involved in reducing respiratory heat loss. An image based on this work won Joint Runner-Up in the Best Image award from the Anatomical Society, October 2018.
Please click here to go to the open-access paper.
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