A Review of the Diving Adaptations of Weddell Seals (Leptonychotes Weddellii)

This report contains a compilation and review of adaptations of Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii) for diving. Discussed are anatomical adaptations including its teeth and eye structure, and ability to collapse its lung; behavioural adaptations including diving within its anaerobic dive limit; and physiological adaptations including having high haemoglobin and myoglobin, and ability to control heart rate and consequent blood circulation. Their unique adaptations, as well as those they share with phocids and pinnipeds in general, are addressed, including comparisons where appropriate. This report contains a compilation and review of adaptations of Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii) for diving. Discussed are anatomical adaptations including its teeth and eye structure, and ability to collapse its lung; behavioural adaptations including diving within its anaerobic dive limit; and physiological adaptations including having high haemoglobin and myoglobin, and ability to control heart rate and consequent blood circulation. Their unique adaptations, as well as those they share with phocids and pinnipeds in general, are addressed, including comparisons where appropriate