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Question

Write short notes in 150 words:
Book lungs

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2025 (Prelims) CSAT Official Paper (25-May-2025)

Book lungs are specialized respiratory organs found in many terrestrial arachnids, most notably spiders and scorpions, and represent an important adaptation for life on land. These structures are internal, sac-like cavities located in the abdomen, filled with numerous thin, plate-like folds called lamellae. Arranged in parallel, these lamellae resemble the pages of a book, giving the organ its distinctive name. Air enters the book lung through a small external opening known as a spiracle, while hemolymph (the arachnid’s blood) circulates within the lamellae. The large surface area created by these stacked folds greatly enhances gas exchange: oxygen diffuses into the hemolymph, and carbon dioxide diffuses out to be released into the air. Unlike gills of aquatic arthropods, book lungs minimize water loss while ensuring efficient respiration in dry environments. This evolutionary innovation enabled arachnids to successfully colonize terrestrial habitats, balancing survival needs with environmental challenges.

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